The USC Trojans took a real step forward in 2025, showing flashes of the team they’re aiming to be in the Big Ten. While the 2026 recruiting class is already generating plenty of buzz, the real excitement might come from the players who are already in the building. USC is returning a core group of high-impact contributors-guys who’ve already shown they can play at a high level and are poised to take another leap.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key Trojans returning for 2026, and why their presence could elevate USC into serious contender territory.
Waymond Jordan: The Power-Speed Combo Returns
Waymond Jordan is back in cardinal and gold, and that’s big news for the Trojans’ offense. Jordan’s 2025 campaign started with a bang-he was running through defenders, showing off both power and burst.
But injuries cut that breakout short. In just six games, he racked up 576 yards and five touchdowns, including two games with over 150 yards on the ground.
That’s not just production-it’s dominance in spurts.
In his absence, King Miller stepped up and never looked back. Miller brought explosion and consistency to the backfield, proving he could carry the load.
If both backs stay healthy in 2026, USC might have the best one-two punch in the country. Jordan’s bruising style complements Miller’s speed and vision perfectly, and if they split carries in a balanced system, don’t be surprised if both flirt with 1,000-yard seasons.
That kind of backfield depth is rare-and it’s a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Jayden Maiava: The QB1 With Something to Prove
Jayden Maiava is back under center, and that gives USC a proven, battle-tested leader at the most important position on the field. After transferring in and facing early skepticism, Maiava silenced the doubters in 2025. He didn’t just manage games-he made plays and looked like one of the best quarterbacks in the Big Ten.
His return does complicate things a bit with former five-star recruit Husan Longstreet waiting in the wings, but for now, this is Maiava’s team. With another year in Lincoln Riley’s system, Maiava has the tools and trajectory to be a legitimate Heisman contender. His poise, decision-making, and ability to extend plays improved dramatically last season, and if he keeps trending upward, he could be the next great USC signal-caller.
Yes, USC will have to replace big-time weapons like Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane, but Riley’s offense has never had trouble attracting talent. And with Maiava at the helm, elite receivers will want to be part of what’s coming next.
Tanook Hines: Breakout Star in the Making
If you’re looking for the next big thing at wide receiver, look no further than Tanook Hines. As a true freshman, Hines made the most of his opportunities, finishing the year with 398 yards, 28 catches, and two touchdowns. But it was his performance against Oregon-six catches for 141 yards and a score-that really turned heads.
That kind of production, in that kind of game, says a lot about Hines’ potential. He’s got the speed, route-running, and big-play ability to be a go-to target in 2026.
With more targets coming his way and a full offseason to build chemistry with Maiava, this could be the start of something special. Don’t be surprised if “Maiava to Hines” becomes a weekly headline next fall.
Husan Longstreet: The Patience Play
In an era where quarterbacks are quick to transfer at the first sign of competition, Husan Longstreet is taking a different approach. Despite Maiava’s return, Longstreet is staying put-and trusting Lincoln Riley to develop him. That’s a rare move in today’s college football landscape, and it speaks volumes about Longstreet’s mindset.
Make no mistake: Longstreet has the talent to start at a lot of programs right now. But he’s playing the long game.
Just look at what Riley has done with quarterbacks in the past-Heisman winners, first-round picks, NFL starters. Longstreet knows that waiting his turn might be the best path to long-term success.
And when his time does come? He’ll be ready.
Whether it’s 2026 or beyond, Longstreet has the tools to be USC’s next star under center. For now, he’ll keep learning, keep developing, and be one of the most intriguing players to watch on the Trojans’ roster.
Braylan Shelby: The Defensive Anchor
On the other side of the ball, USC is bringing back one of its most productive defenders in edge rusher Braylan Shelby. The junior led the team with 4.5 sacks in 2025 and now has 9.5 in his Trojans career. He’s not just a stat sheet guy-he’s a tone-setter on a defense that’s quietly been improving year over year.
Shelby’s return gives USC a veteran presence in the trenches, and that’s huge for a defense looking to take the next step in the Big Ten. With young talent coming in and the unit getting deeper, Shelby’s leadership and experience will be critical. If the Trojans want to be more than just a high-powered offense, they’ll need guys like Shelby to lead the charge on defense.
Final Thoughts
USC’s 2026 outlook is already promising thanks to a strong recruiting class, but the real foundation is being built by the players who are returning. From a dynamic backfield duo to a seasoned quarterback, a breakout receiver, and a defensive leader, the Trojans are bringing back the kind of core that can win big games-and maybe even chase a Big Ten title.
The pieces are there. Now it’s about putting it all together. And with Lincoln Riley steering the ship, USC fans have every reason to believe that next season could be something special.