The USC Trojans coaching staff continues its offseason evolution under Lincoln Riley, with another internal promotion signaling a focus on continuity and development for the 2025 Big Ten campaign.
In a fresh breakdown from USC LAFB (hosted by Ryan Dyrud), the channel highlights the latest move: defensive analyst and assistant linebackers coach AJ Howard has been elevated to outside linebackers coach.
The report, first noted by CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, comes as the Trojans fine-tune their defensive structure amid Gary Patterson’s influence as defensive coordinator.
AJ Howard’s USC Trojans Rise And Background
Howard joined the USC Trojans last year after coaching outside linebackers at Appalachian State (2023–2024). Before that, he brought NFL experience—playing safety for the New England Patriots, where he contributed to their 2019 Super Bowl win—along with stints as a graduate assistant at Louisville (2020) and a Southeast area scout for the Patriots (2021–2022).
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Notably, Howard was already hands-on with linebackers during games last season, often working the sidelines while Rob Ryan oversaw from the booth. This promotion formalizes his role and rewards his contributions.
How It Fits The Defensive Puzzle
The move complements recent staff adjustments, and this is how I see it playing out.
- Mike Eckler remains linebackers coach and special teams coordinator, likely shifting primary focus to inside linebackers.
- Rob Ryan transitions to a defensive analyst role.
- Skyler Jones was promoted to defensive tackles coach.
- Shawn Nua handles the broader defensive line.
In Patterson’s adaptable scheme (often featuring a 4-2-5 base), Howard will oversee outside linebackers/edge rushers—key pieces like Kameron Crawford and Braylan Shelby—while Eckler guides inside backers such as Desman Stephens II and Jaden Walker. Hybrid talents like Elijah Newby add flexibility to the front seven.
The host emphasizes this as part of Riley’s pattern of promoting from within to maintain momentum from last year’s defensive improvements. Retaining and elevating familiar faces helps build cohesion ahead of Big Ten play.
Looking Ahead
No major external hires here—just smart, low-drama tweaks that keep the staff intact and hungry. As the Trojans gear up for spring ball and continued roster building, these kinds of moves quietly strengthen the foundation.
For the full take, including deeper dives into scheme fits and player alignments, check out the original USC LAFB video.