Bear Alexander picks USC, Trojans land former Georgia defensive lineman

USC has completely overhauled the middle of its defensive line in the offseason

The USC football team has added a potential difference-maker on defense from the transfer portal.

After visiting campus over the weekend, former University of Georgia defensive lineman Bear Alexander committed to USC on Sunday night. The Athletic ranked Alexander as the No. 1 rated player in the portal.

Alexander played in 12 of Georgia's 15 games as a true freshman. He made nine tackles, with three coming for loss. Alexander also recorded two sacks, two pass breakups and 13 quarterback hurries. One of the sacks came against TCU in Georgia's dominating national title game victory.

USC has completely overhauled the middle of its defensive line in the offseason. 

During the Trojans spring game last weekend, Purdue transfer Jack Sullivan and Arizona transfer Kyon Barrs started at defensive tackle and nose tackle. The addition of Alexander gives USC another key piece on the inside. He'll likely start. 

Stanley Ta'ufo'ou, Tyrone Taleni and Dejon Benton should also factor in at the two tackle spots in the fall. 

Coming out of IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) in the class of 2022, Alexander was ranked as the No. 50 prospect nationally in the 247Sports.com composite.

Here's 247Sports.com's scouting report on Alexander coming out of high school:

Big-bodied interior defensive lineman with college-ready size. Requisite height accompanies significant mass. Missed sophomore year (transfer rules) but returned as a junior to aid a Texas 5A D-I state championship defense. Shows encouraging get-off quickness relative to size, as well as pursuit ability. Physical at the point of attack with expected play strength. Punchy and shows stack-and-shed ability vs. the run. Plays inside in a four-man front and is likely capable of fitting even or odd looks. Can expand move set and technical nuance. Balance and body control can also get better when engaged and in pursuit. Legitimate high-major interior defensive lineman who could become impact starter in college with potential to reach the pro level.