USC's Defensive Line: Filling the Void Left by Devan Thompkins in the 2026 Season

USC's Defensive Line: Filling the Void Left by Devan Thompkins in the 2026 Season

USC and coach Lincoln Riley are gearing up for a crucial 2026 season, with hopes of making it to the College Football Playoff. The team made significant moves in the transfer portal, adding eight new players, mostly on the defensive side. However, they also saw 21 players leave the program, including standout defensive tackle Devan Thompkins, who transferred to Alabama. Thompkins had been a key player for USC, recording impressive stats over his three seasons with the Trojans. His departure leaves a gap in the defensive line that USC will need to address as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Thompkins' move to Alabama will have an impact on USC's defense, especially as they aim to make a playoff run in 2026. With the defensive coordinator position still vacant, USC will rely on returning players like Kameryn Crawford, Braylan Shelby, Jahkeem Stewart, Jide Abasiri, and Floyd Boucard to step up in Thompkins' absence. Boucard and Abasiri will be crucial in filling the void left by Thompkins, as they look to build on their performances from the previous season. USC's defense will need to come together and perform at a high level to achieve their goals in the upcoming season.