USC Freshman Cornerback Elbert Hill Impresses in Spring Practice

The highly-touted recruit makes a highlight-reel interception in front of coaches and recruits at the Coliseum.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The USC Trojans have officially started spring practices, and freshman cornerback Elbert Hill is already making highlight plays. The Trojans' social media team posted a video of Hill intercepting a pass, showcasing his speed and awareness as he came down with what appears to be an overthrown ball during a practice session held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Why it matters

Hill was a highly-touted recruit in USC's 2026 class, ranked as the No. 53 overall player and No. 6 cornerback in the country. His early standout performance in practice is a good sign for the Trojans' secondary depth, as they look to improve on a 2025 season where the defense recorded 12 interceptions.

The details

The Trojans held practice inside the Coliseum on Saturday with some family and recruits in attendance. Hill, who arrived on campus as part of USC's top-ranked 2026 recruiting class, was previously recruited by Ohio State before choosing the Trojans. While it may have been one of Hill's first big plays in the Coliseum, the coaching staff will be evaluating the entire roster as they get to know each player's strengths and areas for growth.

  • USC held practice inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on Saturday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Elbert Hill

A highly-touted freshman cornerback who was part of USC's top-ranked 2026 recruiting class, ranked as the No. 53 overall player and No. 6 cornerback in the country.

Lincoln Riley

The head coach of the USC Trojans football team.

Gary Patterson

The defensive coordinator for the USC Trojans football team.

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What they’re saying

“went and got it 😤‼️”

— USC Football (Twitter)

What’s next

The Trojans' coaching staff will continue to evaluate the roster and depth chart as spring practices progress, with Hill looking to solidify a role in the secondary rotation.

The takeaway

Elbert Hill's early standout performance in USC's spring practices is an encouraging sign for the Trojans' secondary depth, as the highly-touted freshman cornerback looks to make an immediate impact for the program.