BREAKING: USC’s offensive line will remain intact for the upcoming 2026 season as right guard Alani Noa has officially re-signed with the team. This announcement, made through USC’s official social media channels on Tuesday afternoon, ensures that all five starting linemen will return, a critical development for the Trojans as they look to build on last season’s successes.
The re-signing of Noa comes on the heels of earlier commitments from left tackle Elijah Paige on December 29 and left guard Tobias Raymond on December 17. Center Kilian O’Connor and right tackle Justin Tauanuu also confirmed their returns before the new year. Their collective experience provides a foundation for continuity in the offensive line, which was frequently shuffled last season.
“It’s always a good thing when you get guys that come back, just because we’ve already got chemistry,” said Tobias Raymond in mid-December, highlighting the team’s ability to build on established relationships rather than starting anew.
This continuity is crucial for quarterback Jayden Maiava, who showed remarkable performance in 2025, averaging 285.46 passing yards per game with 24 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions. His ability to thrive behind a stable offensive line could significantly impact USC’s performance in the competitive Big Ten Conference.
As a unit, USC’s offense averaged 169.5 rushing yards and 465.5 total yards per game, showcasing their effectiveness despite the frequent lineup changes. With a strong offensive front returning, expectations are high for the upcoming season.
In addition to the offensive line news, USC has made key additions to its special teams. Long snapper Dylan Black and punter Lachlan Carrigan, both transfers from Memphis, have committed to the Trojans. This addition follows the departure of last season’s long snapper, Hank Pepper, who has exhausted his eligibility. Black will join rising redshirt senior Devin McDonough and sophomore Luke Brown, while Carrigan, who averaged 43.2 yards per punt last season, adds depth to the roster.
Meanwhile, the Trojans face challenges in the receiving corps. Jaden Richardson, who caught 12 passes for 148 yards and a touchdown in 2025, has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, as announced on his social media. His exit adds to the list of receiver departures, including Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane, who have also declared for the draft. Further complicating the situation, receivers Prince Strachan and DJ Jordan entered the transfer portal, signing with West Virginia and Arizona, respectively.
To bolster their receiving options, USC has secured a commitment from transfer Terrell Anderson, previously with North Carolina State, aiming to enhance their roster amid these departures.
As the Trojans prepare for the upcoming season, the return of their starting offensive line is a promising sign, while the evolving situation with their receivers adds an element of urgency to USC’s recruitment efforts. Fans will be watching closely as these developments unfold, anticipating how the team will navigate these changes heading into 2026.
