When Desman Stephens II racked up 17 tackles against Oregon last month, it marked a milestone - the first time a USC defender had hit that number in five years, dating back to Talanoa Hufanga’s standout performance in a wild rivalry win over UCLA. That kind of production is rare at the college level. But for USC’s newest linebacker signee, Taylor Johnson, it’s practically routine.
Johnson just wrapped up a high school season that can only be described as absurd. The Cajon High School (San Bernardino, Calif.) standout posted 201 tackles in just 11 games - that’s an average of 18.5 per game.
Let that sink in. He had seven games with at least 20 tackles, including back-to-back 24-tackle outings.
That’s not just production - that’s a heat-seeking missile in shoulder pads.
Now, the 6-foot-1, 210-pound tackling machine is officially a Trojan. Johnson signed with USC on Wednesday, the first day of the Early Signing Period, and he brings with him a relentless motor and the kind of physical edge that fits right into what USC is trying to build on defense.
The Road to USC
Johnson didn’t come into the recruiting cycle with a ton of national hype, but his numbers were hard to ignore. As a junior, he averaged 14.5 tackles per game and finished with 174 in 12 contests. Still, he flew under the radar for much of the process, picking up offers from programs like Boston College, West Virginia, Fresno State, Washington State, Arizona, San Jose State, UNLV, Oregon State, and Cal.
But once USC got him on campus for an unofficial visit in the spring, things moved quickly. The Trojans offered soon after, and Johnson didn’t waste any time - he committed less than a week later and never looked back.
By the Numbers
According to the 247Sports Composite, Johnson is ranked No. 900 nationally, the No. 141 linebacker in the country, and the No. 110 overall player in California. He’s not the flashiest name in USC’s 2026 class, but his production and physicality speak volumes.
How He Fits at USC
Of USC’s three linebacker commits in this class, Johnson is the smallest in stature, but don’t let the measurables fool you - he plays with a chip on his shoulder and a physicality that jumps off the tape. He’s the kind of player who seems to take it personally when someone in an opposing jersey crosses his face.
He projects best as a WILL linebacker in USC’s scheme - the kind of role that allows him to use his instincts and quickness to shoot gaps, chase down plays sideline-to-sideline, and bring the hammer when he arrives. While he may need some time to develop physically and adjust to the speed of the college game, Johnson has the tools and mindset to grow into a reliable contributor.
And don’t be surprised if his first impact comes on special teams. His motor and tackling ability make him a natural fit there early on.
Scouting Snapshot
Johnson is a classic inside linebacker with a nose for the football and a love for contact. He’s quick to diagnose plays, gets downhill in a hurry, and isn’t afraid to lower the boom. He moves well laterally, sheds blocks effectively, and looks comfortable operating in space - all traits that translate well to the next level.
He’s not going to blow anyone away with elite size or top-end athleticism, but he plays fast, aggressive, and with a physical edge that coaches love. Think of him as the kind of player who might not be a five-star on paper, but ends up starting for multiple seasons and wearing the captain’s “C” before it’s all said and done.
What’s Next
Johnson joins a USC linebacker room that’s still developing its identity under the current staff. With some young depth already in place, he’ll have a chance to learn and grow without being thrown into the fire right away. But if his high school production is any indication, it’s only a matter of time before he starts making noise in L.A.
For now, the Trojans have added a gritty, high-motor defender who lives to hit and has a knack for finding the football. That’s a pretty good foundation to build on.