USC Trojans' Waymond Jordan Signs Major NIL Deal Ahead of Injury Return

The running back's new partnership with Panini America signals big expectations for his 2026 comeback.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 6:41pm

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USC Trojans running back Waymond Jordan has signed a major NIL deal with Panini America, signaling both his marketability and his expected on-field impact for the 2026 season. Jordan, who is recovering from an injury-shortened 2025 campaign, is now positioned as one of the faces of a USC program with College Football Playoff expectations.

Why it matters

Jordan's new NIL deal with Panini America highlights his rising profile and the growing importance of name, image, and likeness opportunities for top college athletes. It also reinforces the high expectations surrounding Jordan's return to the field and USC's playoff aspirations for the upcoming season.

The details

Before his injury, Jordan was one of the most productive backs in the country, averaging 6.5 yards per carry and scoring five touchdowns in roughly six games. His partnership with Panini expands his reach beyond traditional sponsorships and puts his name directly in the hands of fans nationwide. The deal comes as Jordan continues his recovery timeline, with the expectation that he will be fully healthy by fall camp.

  • Jordan suffered an ankle injury early in the 2025 season, forcing him to miss the remainder of the year.
  • Jordan later underwent a cleanup procedure and missed spring practice as part of his recovery timeline.
  • The expectation is that Jordan will make a full return by fall camp in 2026.

The players

Waymond Jordan

A running back for the USC Trojans who was one of the most productive backs in the country before suffering an injury-shortened season in 2025. He has now signed a major NIL deal with Panini America as he prepares for his return in 2026.

Lincoln Riley

The head coach of the USC Trojans, who is leading the program's push for a College Football Playoff berth in 2026.

King Miller

The USC Trojans running back who stepped into the lead role in Jordan's absence late in the 2025 season, offering a glimpse of the team's depth at the position.

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What’s next

The focus remains on Jordan's recovery, but the message is already clear: Waymond Jordan is setting himself up for a breakout season in 2026 and sends a message to not just the rest of the Big Ten, but all of college football.

The takeaway

Jordan's new NIL deal with Panini America is a clear signal of the high expectations surrounding his return to the field in 2026. As USC enters the season with playoff ambitions, Jordan's marketability and on-field production will be crucial to the Trojans' success.