**Editor Note: The newest development solidifies Alexander’s stance with USC Football
**Editor Note: Shortly after the publication of this article, LAFB Network received a contradictory message from a high-level official within USC football stating that Bear Alexander would remain with the team.
USC Football: Source Denies Bear Alexander’s Rumored Transfer Portal Exit
It has been confirmed by sources familiar with the situation that Keithian “Bear” Alexander will enter the transfer portal when the new term opens on April 15th with the intent to leave USC football. The story was originally reported by @USCJ32 via Twitter. His motivation is said to be NIL-driven and his preferred destination is the Texas Longhorns.
2024 USC Trojans Transfer Portal Tracker
This is a major blow to the defensive turnaround that new defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn is attempting. Until this news, all signs were pointing toward positive momentum toward rebuilding the beleaguered unit. Earlier this year, Eric Henderson, USC’s new defensive line coach successfully recruited top edge prospect, Justus Terry, flipping him from his commitment to Georgia.
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Bear’s Short Stint With USC Football
Alexander transferred to USC just last year after an impressive true freshman year at Georgia. For USC the 6’3″ 300 lbs defensive tackle posted 32 pressures, three sacks, and 28 run stops per PFF. He was one of three defensive linemen to play in all 13 games for the Trojans and played more than double the snaps of the next-highest snap-getter.
It was reported that Alexander’s reason for leaving Georgia for USC had to do with his security as the starting defensive tackle for the Bulldogs.
State of USC’s Defensive Line
In fact the Trojans have lost each of the interior defensive linemen that started last season. The only returning members from last season are Elijah Hughes and Kobe Pepe. They have added Isaiah Raikes from Texas A&M and Nate Clifton from Vanderbilt to the defensive line through the last transfer portal term.
Red-shirt freshman Deijon Laffitte and true freshmen Kaylon Miller and Jide Abasiri round out the depth at the position currently on the roster.
Expect Henderson and USC football to be actively pursing defensive linemen in the transfer portal.
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