USC Lands Top OT Recruit Keenyi Pepe

The 5-star offensive tackle from IMG Academy joins the Trojans' elite 2026 recruiting class.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 3:55am

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USC has landed the top offensive tackle recruit in the country, Keenyi Pepe, as part of its highly-ranked 2026 recruiting class. Pepe, a 6-foot-7, 320-pound tackle from IMG Academy in Florida, was the No. 5 overall player and top offensive lineman in the 2026 class. He is expected to compete for a starting role on the Trojans' offensive line as soon as next season.

Why it matters

Securing elite offensive line talent is crucial for USC's future success, as the offensive line is tasked with protecting the quarterback and opening holes for the running game. Pepe's arrival bolsters an already strong Trojans' recruiting class and gives them a potential franchise left tackle for years to come.

The details

Pepe was a dominant force at IMG Academy, helping the team rush for over 2,000 yards and average over 43 points per game. He showcased impressive agility and strength for his size, consistently driving defenders off the line of scrimmage and finishing blocks with a nasty demeanor. Pepe's combination of size, athleticism, and physicality made him one of the most sought-after offensive line recruits in the country.

  • Pepe enrolled at USC in January 2026 along with the rest of the Trojans' 35-player recruiting class.
  • He is expected to compete for the starting left tackle job in 2027 after incumbent starter Elijah Paige departs.

The players

Keenyi Pepe

A 5-star offensive tackle recruit from IMG Academy, ranked as the No. 5 overall player and top offensive lineman in the 2026 class.

Elijah Paige

The current starting left tackle for USC, expected to man that position for one more season before departing.

Aaron Dunn

A USC offensive lineman who will compete with Pepe for the starting left tackle job in 2027.

Elijah Vaikona

Another USC offensive lineman who will compete with Pepe for the starting left tackle job in 2027.

Justin Tauanuu

A USC offensive lineman who Pepe could potentially compete with for the starting right tackle job in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Pepe gives us that right off the bat here. Disregard the arrow, as Pepe is playing left tackle. He shoots off the ball to the second level and is not content to just wall up his man. Pepe locks on to his man and keeps driving until the defender is on the ground. There's some nastiness in his twitch as he finishes the play.”

— R.J. Abeytia, 247Sports Analyst (247Sports)

What’s next

Pepe will look to compete for the starting left tackle job at USC in 2027 after spending his freshman season developing and learning the college game.

The takeaway

USC has landed a potential franchise left tackle in Keenyi Pepe, who brings a rare combination of size, athleticism, and physicality to the Trojans' offensive line. His arrival bolsters an already elite 2026 recruiting class and gives USC a potential cornerstone for its offensive line for years to come.