Another creator commented that USC landing talented defensive players going into their final year of eligibility indicates that players believe that USC has a solid plan for next year’s defensive coaching staff and they know what that plan is. They are, after all, betting their future on this program. That rings true to me.

If Eric Henderson is the choice at DC, I don’t see a reason to hold off this long on an announcement. The other possibility that occurs to me is the question: is there an NFL DC that is near the end of his career and is so eminently respected that Coach Henny and Doug Belk would be willing to work under him another two years? Would USC possibly bring Pete Carrol back as either DC or as assistant/mentor to Coach Henny? Would Pete take that job?

Thanks for the info and your thoughts. It seems like staff continuity is their priority and for anyone who might think that would be a lazy route, look at Indiana. Haines has been with Cignetti for years and is one of the main reasons why they’ve been able to turn things around so quickly over there. The NFL-style approach that was implemented last year will also influence our next hire, internal or not.