Young USC talent ready to make a strong impression in 1st year with program

Taking the next jump from high school to college is an incredibly difficult task. USC has a couple of true freshmen on the roster, though, who appear to be ahead of their years, ready to make an immediate impact for the Trojans.

Having someone who can adjust quickly to the Division I level of play and be an instant contributor is something that is incredibly valuable. Being able to build around a young corps allows for a team to have a sustained output in terms of talent and production for years to come. The sooner someone is able to be counted to execute in the system, the better.

For USC there are several key young players to keep an eye on, even if they are only in their first year as student-athletes.

Jahkeem Stewart is a great example of someone who has turned heads early and who many Trojan fans expect to have a significant role in 2025. The defensive lineman has the size and physical traits to be a disruptor in the trenches. What's more, because of the depth of USC on the defensive line, Stewart will not be forced to have an unreasonable amount of expectations on his shoulders as a freshman. Still, when Stewart does ultimately take the field, Trojan fans are going to be looking for big plays to happen.

Gus Cordova is another big-time prospect who could see himself carve out a role early in his Trojan career. Also listed as a defensive end, Cordova is in a similar situation as Stewart. There are good athletes at the top of the depth chart who will be able to set the tone and take a lot of early pressure off the young linemen. For Cordova, too, when his number is called, and it will be during the upcoming season, USC fans have every reason to believe that he will be able to stand out quickly as a freshman.

Young USC WR to keep an eye on

There are others that could also be mentioned. Certainly, someone who people aren't necessarily thinking of at the moment will find a way to rise to the top.

Corey Simms is a wideout who should be monitored. The wide receiver room is, of course, led by Ja'Kobi Lane and Makai Lemon. Over the course of the regular season, though, Simms will have his chance to impress. Look for the freshman to make the most of his targets early and set himself up for a nice, long, successful USC career.