In what was a roller coaster season for the USC Trojans, it has been an even more of an up-and-down affair to kick off the offseason.
Since the transfer portal opened last week, the news of the big-name players leaving the program has sent fans into a tizzy.
Lincoln Riley has added two solid additions through the portal in CB DJ Harvey and RB Eli Sanders, but with the losses mounting, the Trojans needed some good news as they head into Christmas and their Vegas Bowl Game on the 27th against Texas A&M.
Last week both QB Jayden Maiava and LT Elijah Paige told the media that they were committed to SC and would be back next season.
Today, fans were given another piece of great news that should provide some hope for next season.
Emmanuel Pregnon Commits To Returning To USC Trojans In 2025
After Wednesday’s practice, starting guard Emmanuel Pregnon told the media that he would be returning next season for his final year of eligibility.
The expectation by many, including myself, was that Pregnon would declare for the NFL Draft with fellow teammate Jonah Monheim. Instead, he will utilize his 6th season of eligibility and become the leader of the offensive line.
Also Read: USC Trojans 2025 Transfer Portal Tracker
The 6’5, 320-pound transfer from Wyoming has been a stalwart on the line since he arrived on campus. He was a member of Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freaks List,” and lived up to the billing this season.
The next question will be if Pregnon will remain at guard, or similar to Monheim and Justin Dedich before him, move over to Center for his final season. He is similar in stature to Monheim, which is the prototypical size for a center at the next level.
Just 24 hours ago, it looked like the USC Trojans would be replacing three starters on the offensive line, and with OL Coach Josh Henson taking the Purdue Offensive Coordinator job, there was even uncertainty around Paige and Alani Noa.
24 hours later, TE Coach Zach Hanson was transitioned to OL Coach and Pregnon is returning. This is a massive boost for the USC Trojans.