USC Lands 2027 Commitment from Local Defensive Lineman

Isaia Vandermade chooses Trojans over Oregon and Oklahoma

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

USC football has secured a commitment from three-star defensive lineman Isaia Vandermade for their 2027 recruiting class. The Rancho Santa Margarita, California native chose the Trojans over offers from Oregon and Oklahoma. Vandermade's father, Lenny Vandermade, played and coached at USC for over a decade, making this a homecoming for the young defensive lineman.

Why it matters

Landing top local talent is crucial for USC as they look to rebuild their program under new head coach Lincoln Riley. Securing commitments this early for the 2027 class shows the Trojans are making recruiting a top priority and aiming to reestablish themselves as a national power.

The details

Isaia Vandermade is ranked as the 739th-best player nationally, 80th-best defensive lineman, and 80th-best player from California according to 247Sports. He received his USC offer just a week ago but wasted little time committing to the Trojans, citing his family's deep ties to the program as a major factor in his decision.

  • Vandermade received his USC offer one week ago.
  • Vandermade committed to USC shortly after receiving the offer.

The players

Isaia Vandermade

A three-star defensive lineman from Rancho Santa Margarita, California who has committed to play for USC in 2027.

Lenny Vandermade

Isaia's father, who played on the offensive line for USC from 2000-2003 and later coached at the school from 2009-2012, 2014-2015, and 2018-2022.

Lincoln Riley

The current head coach of the USC football team, who is working to rebuild the program and secure top recruiting talent.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Man that was a surreal moment for me for sure. Growing up, my dad didn't just play at USC, he coached there for 10 years too. I've always been around USC and grew up idolizing the players. Coach (Shaun) Nua called me about the USC offer, then put me on the phone with coach (Skyler) Jones, who offered me. It's definitely a huge blessing.”

— Isaia Vandermade (On3)

What’s next

USC will look to continue building momentum on the recruiting trail as they prepare to open the 2026 season as a potential top-25 team.

The takeaway

USC's ability to land a commitment from a talented local prospect like Isaia Vandermade, whose family has deep ties to the program, demonstrates the Trojans' renewed focus on recruiting and their efforts to reestablish themselves as a national powerhouse under new head coach Lincoln Riley.