As USC football looks ahead to the 2026 season, the Trojans are bringing back a solid core of talent—including quarterback Jayden Maiava, a stable of dynamic running backs, and a young defense hungry to improve from the previous year. But while there's plenty of returning production to build on, the team faces a significant challenge: replacing the star power that walked out the door.

According to ESPN, USC lost three underclassmen to the NFL Draft, including Biletnikoff Award winner Lemon and standout Ramsey. On the defensive side, tackle Devan Thompkins—who posted 55 tackles and 4.5 sacks over the past two seasons—headed to Alabama. The transfer portal also took its toll: tight end Walker Lyons (a top-120 recruit) moved to BYU, and Husan Longstreet, a top-50 recruit and potential quarterback of the future, transferred to LSU.

These departures are undeniably significant, but not insurmountable. The key for this 2026 roster will be how well the new pieces fit together. Incoming transfers will need to carry the load early in September, while freshmen recruits work through their growing pains. By October and November, those elite newcomers must start making an impact. If all the parts click, USC has the potential to be great. But make no mistake—replacing these key cogs is a tall order in what shapes up to be a make-or-break season for head coach Lincoln Riley.