Having the right leadership in place at a school like USC is essential — but it’s only part of the equation. Without players who are truly invested in the program, even the strongest foundations can fall short. Fortunately for the Trojans, head coach Lincoln Riley and GM Chad Bowden have prioritized relationship-building long before players ever step on the field. By the time recruits commit, the staff already knows who they are as individuals.
Brandon Lockhart is a clear example of that culture in action. A standout defensive back finishing his junior year at Loyola High School in Los Angeles, Lockhart has already embraced the role of leader and ambassador for USC. He recently ended his recruitment and spoke with Rivals’ Matt Moreno about what it meant to see fellow 2026 cornerback Elbert Hill also choose USC.
In today’s game, elite recruits increasingly view each other as potential teammates rather than competitors — even at the same position. It’s about pushing one another, raising the standard, and ultimately elevating the entire team. With that mindset, success becomes a shared outcome.
Lockhart embodies that vision. His active efforts to recruit peers like Hill — and to support out-of-state visitors during campus trips — reflect a selfless, team-first mentality that USC will lean on as it works to return to national prominence.
The Trojans are already locking in top-tier recruiting classes. The next step is capitalizing on that momentum with on-field success this fall. With players like Lockhart leading the way, USC is building a culture that top talent will want to be a part of for years to come.
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