The USC Trojans offensive line improved mightily throughout the 2024 season. After a low point in the third game against Michigan, the unit saw drastic improvement in both run blocking and pass blocking.
That being said, the unit will be losing starters, Center Jonah Monheim to the NFL, and Right Tackle Mason Murphy transferred to Auburn. They also lost some of their depth to the Transfer Portal.
It was big news when it was announced that starting Guard Emmanuel Pregnon would be returning, which means that the Trojans will be replacing two starters instead of three, with sophomores Elijah Paige and Alani Noa also returning.
There is the thought that Pregnon could slide over to Center next season, as both Monheim and Justin Dedich did before him, but there is a Center that just entered the transfer portal, which could be a great option.
J’onre Reed Could Be A Starting Option For USC Trojans
Just before the New Year, Syracuse starting Center, J’onre Reed, entered the transfer portal.
Reed was the starting center for the Orange and played more than 1,500 snaps over the last two seasons.
The USC Trojans had a strong 2025 offensive line recruiting class, but adding a player with so many starting reps is invaluable.
Also Read: 2025 USC Trojans Transfer Portal Tracker
Before playing two years at Syracuse, the 6’3″, 316-pound Reed was a JUCO product out of Kansas.
USC absolutely has to add a couple of offensive linemen through the portal, and Reed would be a versatile option to add to the class.