USC Freshmen Shine in First Week of Spring Practice

New defensive staff hires also make immediate impact on Trojans

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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USC's highly-touted 2026 recruiting class has already made a strong impression during the team's first week of spring practice. Freshmen receivers Trent Mosley and Kayden Dixon-Wyatt, tight end Mark Bowman, and cornerback Elbert Hill have all stood out with their talent and potential. Meanwhile, the Trojans' new defensive coaching staff, led by coordinator Gary Patterson, is already putting its stamp on the program with an emphasis on fundamentals and communication.

Why it matters

USC's 2026 recruiting class is considered one of the best in the country, and the early impact of these freshmen suggests the Trojans could be poised for a big season. The new defensive staff hires also signal a shift in philosophy as USC looks to improve on that side of the ball after a disappointing 2025 campaign.

The details

The 32 freshmen who have already enrolled at USC have been making waves in spring practice, with several drawing praise from coaches and teammates. Receivers Trent Mosley and Kayden Dixon-Wyatt have been described as 'smooth' and 'natural hands catchers,' while tight end Mark Bowman has been compared to Las Vegas Raiders star Brock Bowers. Cornerback Elbert Hill has also impressed with his advanced technique and fluid movements. Other freshmen like defensive end Luke Wafle, defensive lineman Tomuhini 'TomTom' Topui, running back Deshonne Redeaux, and offensive lineman Breck Kolojay have also stood out. On the defensive side, new coordinator Gary Patterson has brought an emphasis on fundamentals and communication, with safeties coach Paul Gonzales and nickels coach Sam Carter leading the charge.

  • USC's spring practice began the first week of March 2026.
  • The Trojans held a practice at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on Saturday.

The players

Lincoln Riley

The head coach of the USC Trojans football team.

Trent Mosley

A highly-touted freshman wide receiver for the USC Trojans.

Kayden Dixon-Wyatt

A highly-touted freshman wide receiver for the USC Trojans.

Mark Bowman

A five-star freshman tight end for the USC Trojans, who has been compared to Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers.

Elbert Hill

A highly-ranked freshman cornerback for the USC Trojans, known for his advanced technique and fluid movements.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

USC's highly-touted 2026 recruiting class has already made a strong impression in spring practice, with several freshmen standing out and drawing praise from coaches and teammates. Meanwhile, the Trojans' new defensive coaching staff, led by coordinator Gary Patterson, is putting an immediate stamp on the program with an emphasis on fundamentals and communication.