USC’s 2027 class already has a buzzworthy defender in four-star safety Gavin Williams, and a viral hit from his high school opener is only adding to the hype.
Williams, who plays at Damien High of La Verne, went online fast after he flew downhill on a screen pass and absolutely unloaded on the receiver. The play had the kind of violence and timing that makes Trojan fans sit up straight, and it also gave USC a fresh reminder of what it may be getting on the back end.
Coach Lincoln Riley, along with defensive coordinator Gary Patterson and the rest of the defensive staff, should appreciate what Williams put on tape. The moment showed the hard-hitting edge that has people comparing the play to the kind of tone-setting safety work USC has long celebrated.
USC commit Gavin Williams came DOWNHILL with bad intentions 😳💥 Absolutely blew up the receiver on this play. Trojan fans, y’all ready to see hits like this on Saturdays?✌️🔥 @gavinnwill #USC #FightOn #CollegeFootball #USCFootball #TheConnectSport pic.twitter.com/EPgFfHvZ54
Williams didn’t just arrive with force. He also showed the instincts and closing speed that make him stand out as a safety prospect. Andrew Ivins of 247Sports called him an “Advanced safety prospect with the eyes and trigger to be a difference-maker in any secondary,” and also wrote that he “charges forward with conviction and looks to make a play.”
That scouting report fits the production, too. In 2025, Williams broke up eight passes and intercepted two more.
He also forced three fumbles and recovered two of them. Over the last two varsity seasons, he has totaled 11 pass breakups and six interceptions.
At 5-11, Williams has already built a profile as one of Damien High’s most college-ready defenders. He also looks like more than just a downhill hitter; he has the route recognition to jump throws and the film-study habits to match.
USC fans will have to wait a bit before seeing him in cardinal and gold. Williams can’t sign his National Letter of Intent until December, and then he can look at enrolling early.
As for where he fits once he gets to campus, that part may depend on what happens with Kennedy Urlacher. The junior could potentially enter the 2027 NFL Draft if his college season goes well enough, which could open a path at safety. Williams could also be aiming at the spot Christian Pierce will soon leave behind as a senior this fall.
Either way, USC appears to have landed a 2027 defensive prospect with the kind of ball skills and thump that can change the feel of a secondary.
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