Prediction: USC Trojans set to add key in-state defensive commitment

USC is set to add to its recruiting haul
Prediction: USC Trojans set to add key in-state defensive commitment
Prediction: USC Trojans set to add key in-state defensive commitment /

The USC Trojans have a special group brewing in the class of 2026.

While the headliner is already undoubtedly Carrollton (Georgia) five-star quarterback Julian Lewis, the nation's No. 1 overall prospect, Lincoln Riley managed to add another eye-opening piece this weekend.

Loyola (California) defensive back Brandon Lockhart, the nation's No. 1 cornerback, chose to stay home and committed to the Trojans.

But USC is not done adding to its 2026 collection.

Prediction: Madden Riordan to USC Trojans

When class of 2026 Sierra Canyon (California) defensive back Madden Riordan received his USC offer recently, he could hardly contain himself.

"(It's a) dream come true," he told SBLive Sports. "It means everything. USC is my dream school. My dad is a huge USC fan and I was ecstatic and overwhelmed with emotion." 

The 5-foot-11, 160-pound versatile defender is nearing double-digit offers, highlighted by Arizona, California, Colorado, Miami and others, but a committable offer from the Trojans feels like the only one he needed.

It helps that he and Lockhart are 7-on-7 teammates and would like to play together at the next level. 

While Riordan has not yet set a commitment date, the buzz surrounding another addition for USC is loud.

Expect him to make the move sooner rather than later. 

Freshman highlights


Published
Andrew Nemec, SBLive Sports
ANDREW NEMEC, SBLIVE SPORTS

Andrew Nemec covers national high school recruiting and brings more than a decade of experience. Andrew hosts "Recruiting with Andrew Nemec" on ESPN-affiliate 1080 The FAN in Portland, Oregon. He holds a journalism degree from the University of Oregon.