USC Coach Shaun Nua Names Underrated Leader on the Trojans Defense

Defensive end Jide Abasiri emerges as a key leader for the Trojans in 2026.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 6:47am

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USC defensive ends coach Shaun Nua highlighted defensive end Jide Abasiri as an underrated leader on the Trojans' defense. Abasiri, a 6-foot-5 defensive tackle, had a strong 2025 season with 26 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and one forced fumble. Nua praised Abasiri's growth both as a player and a leader, saying he is ready to take on increased responsibility this season.

Why it matters

With the departure of former defensive tackle Devan Thompkins, Abasiri will be counted on to step up as a leader on the defensive line. The Trojans' defense is undergoing a significant overhaul under new defensive coordinator Gary Patterson, and Abasiri's leadership will be crucial as the unit looks to improve its run defense and overall performance.

The details

Abasiri was a force on the defensive line last season, and his continued development has positioned him as a leader for the Trojans in 2026. Nua praised Abasiri's growth, both in terms of his talent and his maturity as a young man. With the Trojans facing some key losses on defense, Abasiri will be counted on to guide the unit and help integrate the new players and coaching staff.

  • Abasiri finished the 2025 season with 26 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and one forced fumble.
  • The Trojans will open the 2026 season with a new-look defense under coordinator Gary Patterson.

The players

Jide Abasiri

A 6-foot-5 defensive tackle who emerged as a force on the Trojans' defensive line in 2025, finishing with 26 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and one forced fumble.

Shaun Nua

The USC Trojans' defensive ends coach, who praised Abasiri's growth and leadership potential ahead of the 2026 season.

Gary Patterson

The new defensive coordinator for the USC Trojans, who brings significant defensive expertise to the program and will be tasked with overhauling the unit.

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What they’re saying

“I remember recruiting him, just a talent that was very raw and to see his growth, not only just from a talent perspective, just from a young man too. You see him grow and just become the leader that he is now. And he still has a great ceiling.”

— Shaun Nua, USC Defensive Ends Coach

“It's very exciting and encouraging to watch him grow. But now there's going to be a lot asked of him, and he can handle it. He's a great young man. He's strong physically, mentally, and he's still learning how to lead, and that's the exciting part. He's just scratching the surface just from being a complete player.”

— Shaun Nua, USC Defensive Ends Coach

What’s next

The Trojans will look to Abasiri to provide leadership and stability on the defensive line as they work to implement Gary Patterson's new defensive scheme and improve their run defense ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Jide Abasiri's emergence as a leader on the USC Trojans' defense is a positive sign for the program as they look to rebuild their unit under new coordinator Gary Patterson. Abasiri's combination of talent, maturity, and leadership will be crucial as the Trojans aim to take a step forward on defense in 2026.