The USC Trojans have strengthened their defensive backfield with the addition of transfer cornerback DJ Harvey from San Jose State. A native of Southern California, Harvey brings experience and talent to the Trojans’ secondary. After spending his first two college seasons at Virginia Tech, Harvey transferred to San Jose State, where he earned second-team All-Mountain West honors in his most recent season.
USC Trojans Add Local CB, Mountain West Standout
This comes just days after they added cornerback Chasen Johnson, formerly of the Central Florida Knights.
USC’s defensive backfield experienced significant turnover this offseason, as key contributors Jaylin Smith, Jacobe Covington, John Humphrey, and DeCarlos Nicholson have all reached the end of their collegiate eligibility.
In his most recent season at San Jose State, Harvey recorded 58 tackles, six pass breakups, four interceptions, and two sacks. His strong performance earned him a 90.3 defensive grade, an 89.8 coverage grade, and an 86.0 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus. Despite being targeted 62 times, Harvey limited opponents to 35 receptions for 267 yards and three touchdowns.
While USC and Arizona were the final contenders in Harvey’s recruitment, sources suggest there was likely broader interest from other programs. However, the allure of playing for his hometown team proved too strong for Harvey to resist. Harvey is from Palmdale, CA, and attended Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth.
USC Trojans defensive backs coach, Doug Belk is credited with recruiting Harvey as well as Johnson.