USC defensive tackle Jide Abasiri has been named a quarterfinalist for the Lott IMPACT Trophy, another sign of how quickly he has become one of the most important pieces on the Trojan defense.
The award, named for former NFL Hall of Famer and USC legend Ronnie Lott, goes each year to the Defensive IMPACT Player of the Year. It recognizes the player judged to have made the biggest impact on his team on and off the field. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity, the same traits Lott was known for throughout his career.
Abasiri, a junior, has already been handed captain honors and represented USC at Big Ten Media Days. His value goes beyond leadership, though. He can line up in multiple spots across the defensive front, and his presence in the middle forces offenses to account for him, opening things up for teammates around him.
Through 2026, Abasiri has posted 16 tackles, with 3.5 for loss totaling 14 yards, including one sack for minus 10 yards, along with two quarterback hurries.
Across his USC career, he has collected 49 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss for 38 yards, 4.5 sacks for minus 34 yards, four quarterback hurries and one forced fumble.
His athletic profile has also drawn attention. In 2025, Bruce Feldman included Abasiri on his Freaks List after noting that he reached 19.22 mph at nearly 300 pounds. Feldman also reported a 1.60 10-yard split and a 700-pound squat.
Semifinalists for the Lott IMPACT Trophy will be announced in mid-November. From there, a national voter poll will determine the winner, who will be presented in Newport Beach, California on December 9 at The Pacific Club.
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