USC Trojans Wrap Up Spring Practice With Standout Performances

Quarterback Jonas Williams impresses, injured players return to the field for final week of spring ball.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:33pm

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The USC Trojans concluded their spring practice schedule this week, with several notable developments. Freshman quarterback Jonas Williams drew praise from starter Jayden Maiava, while injured players like Kayden Dixon-Wyatt and Deshonne Redeaux returned to the field. The team also welcomed several high-profile recruits to campus, including 2028 four-star cornerback Micah Hannah and 2027 four-star receiver Quentin Hale. Defensively, freshman linebacker Talanoa Ili and defensive back Joshua Holland stood out during practice.

Why it matters

As the Trojans prepare for the upcoming season, these spring practice sessions provide valuable insight into the team's depth, development of young talent, and overall readiness. The return of injured players and strong performances from freshmen signal a promising future for the program under head coach Lincoln Riley.

The details

During Tuesday's practice, freshman quarterback Jonas Williams took reps behind starter Jayden Maiava, a change from previous weeks when he had been behind sixth-year senior Sam Huard. Maiava praised Williams, saying he is "super talented" and has a "bright future" playing under coach Riley. The Trojans are thin at running back with Waymond Jordan and Shahn Alston sidelined, but the remaining backs like King Miller, Riley Wormley, and Deshonne Redeaux showed their skills as pass-catchers and in hurry-up situations. On defense, freshman linebacker Talanoa Ili and defensive back Joshua Holland made notable plays, with Ili snagging an impressive interception and Holland taking more reps at safety.

  • The Trojans held their 12th spring practice on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
  • Former USC quarterback Caleb Williams was on campus this week, attending the team's recent scrimmage and getting in a workout.
  • Freshman receiver Kayden Dixon-Wyatt and running back Deshonne Redeaux returned to practice after missing time due to injuries.

The players

Caleb Williams

A former USC Heisman Trophy winning quarterback who has been hanging around campus this week.

Jayden Maiava

The Trojans' starting quarterback, who praised the potential of freshman quarterback Jonas Williams.

Jonas Williams

A freshman quarterback who took reps behind Maiava during Tuesday's practice, drawing praise from the starter.

Kayden Dixon-Wyatt

A freshman receiver who returned to practice after missing time due to a soft tissue injury.

Deshonne Redeaux

A freshman running back who also returned to practice after being banged up before spring break.

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What they’re saying

“Super talented, phenomenal. I think any quarterback that plays under coach Riley has a bright future.”

— Jayden Maiava, USC Trojans quarterback

What’s next

The Trojans will continue their spring practice schedule, leading up to their annual spring game on April 15th. Coaches will use the final week to further evaluate the team's depth and development as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

USC's spring practice sessions have showcased the program's promising young talent, with freshmen like Jonas Williams, Kayden Dixon-Wyatt, and Talanoa Ili making strong impressions. The return of injured players and the influx of elite recruits visiting campus signal a bright future for the Trojans under Lincoln Riley's leadership.