USC Tight End Transfer Tucker Ashcraft Poised for Instant Impact

Trojans coach Chad Savage praises Ashcraft's blocking ability and leadership as key additions to the team's tight end room.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The USC Trojans have landed several high-profile transfers this offseason, including Wisconsin tight end Tucker Ashcraft. While Ashcraft is not known for his pass-catching, USC tight ends coach Chad Savage highlighted Ashcraft's run-blocking prowess and veteran leadership as major assets that will make an immediate impact on the team.

Why it matters

USC's tight end room was depleted by transfers and the NFL draft, so Ashcraft's arrival helps shore up depth and provides a physical, blocking presence that can complement the Trojans' other tight end options.

The details

Ashcraft, who was ranked the No. 22 tight end in the transfer portal, is entering a crowded USC tight end room. However, Savage believes Ashcraft's experience and skill set will earn him significant playing time. The Trojans could utilize more 12-personnel packages to get Ashcraft on the field alongside a vertical threat tight end.

  • Ashcraft transferred from Wisconsin to USC in the 2026 offseason.

The players

Tucker Ashcraft

A transfer tight end from Wisconsin who is joining the USC Trojans and expected to make an immediate impact with his run-blocking ability.

Chad Savage

The tight ends coach for the USC Trojans who praised Ashcraft's qualities and believes he will be a great addition to the team.

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What they’re saying

“Grateful that we got him. Great addition, great person, great player. Has all the qualities you want in a Big Ten tight end, obviously he's played in this conference before, so he understands what it takes. He's going to be an immediate impact player for us, not just from a playing standpoint, but from a leadership standpoint too.”

— Chad Savage, USC Tight Ends Coach (si.com)

What’s next

It will be interesting to see how the competition for playing time at tight end shakes out at USC, with Ashcraft, five-star recruit Mark Bowman, and other returners all vying for snaps.

The takeaway

Ashcraft's arrival provides a physical, blocking-focused tight end to complement USC's other tight end options, and his veteran leadership should also be a valuable asset for the Trojans' offense.