USC Trojans Tight End Outlook for 2026: New Faces and Rising Stars
Lincoln Riley's offensive strategy at USC has seen an increased focus on the tight end position, with Lake McRee and Walker Lyons making significant contributions in 2025. However, with McRee heading to the NFL and Lyons transferring to BYU, the Trojans are looking to new players to step up. Five-star recruit Mark Bowman from Mater Dei High School is a key addition to USC's 2026 recruiting class, bringing versatility and matchup problems to the offense.
Josiah Jefferson, a four-star JUCO tight end from Chula Vista, California, flipped his commitment from Utah to USC after witnessing the Trojans' dominant performance against Michigan. With a basketball background and NFL lineage, Jefferson offers a unique skill set as a red zone target. Tucker Ashcraft, a transfer from Wisconsin, brings experience and blocking prowess to the tight end position, adding depth to the roster.
Taniela 'Nela' Topou, a promising freshman from Folsom, California, has shown potential as the Trojans' No. 3 tight end, stepping up in the Alamo Bowl following the departures of McRee and Lyons. With a mix of new recruits and experienced players, USC's tight end group looks poised to continue making an impact in Riley's offensive scheme.