USC Football Depth Chart 2017: Post-Signing Day Projected Starting Lineup

January 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Deontay Burnett (80) celebrates with quarterback Sam Darnold (14) his touchdown scored against the Penn State Nittany Lions during the first half of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Now that USC football has finished up recruiting for 2017, here’s a look at the Trojans projected depth chart for the coming season.

The offseason may feel endless, but the 2017 USC football season will be here soon enough.

You see Way-Too Early rankings all over the place at this stage in the offseason, so here’s a look at how USC’s depth chart might shape up before spring camp:

Quarterback

Projected Starter: #4 Sam Darnold, RS-So.

There is no player more secure in his starting place than Darnold in 2017. The question is whether he’ll reach Heisman heights as a second-year starter.

Back Up: #19 Matt Fink, RS-Fr.

Fink has had a season to redshirt and develop, so he’s easy to pencil in as Darnold’s back up, regardless of how polished a freshman challenger may be.

Reserve: #10 Jalen Greene, RS-Jr.

Greene figures to stay at receiver, but he is always a break-in-case-of-emergency option for USC if needed.

Redshirt: Jack Sears, Fr.

It’s not that Sears couldn’t perform at a level to win the back up job, it’s that USC has no incentive to put him there. Short of an injury to Darnold, the back up will only handle mop up duty and there’s no point burning a season of eligibility for Sears to do that job.

Nov 26, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans running back Ronald Jones II (25) is pursued by Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive lineman Elijah Taylor (58), defensive lineman Isaac Rochell (90) and Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Te’von Coney (4) in the second quarter during a NCAA football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Running Back

Projected Starter: #25 Ronald Jones, Jr.

Jones is the unquestioned No. 1 running back as a junior after the departure of Justin Davis. He led the team in rushing in 2016 anyways and has the potential to have a special (potentially final) campaign in 2017. Injury remains the only concern.

Back Up: #28 Aca’Cedric Ware, Jr.

Ware was bright when he got opportunities in 2016. Unfortunately, those opportunities were limited bay an ankle injury. He’ll benefit the most from Davis graduating, with superior pass catching and blocking ability.

Rotation: #29 Vavae Malepeai, RS-Fr.

Malepeai impressed during fall camp in Year 1, but an injury scuppered his debut season, resulting in a redshirt. Back healthy, he’ll get into the rotation as a redshirt sophomore.

Rotation: Stephen Carr, Fr.

Five-star recruits generally don’t redshirt, so expect Carr to see action in 2017. How much action will depend on how quickly he settles in and how the rotation ahead of him shakes out with three capable backs looking for carries. Power running and pass catching ability should see Carr involved.

Reserve: #16 Dominic Davis, Jr.

After two years of wondering when Davis will break into the line up, it’s time to start wondering if he ever will. The Trojans have added two bright running backs since Davis arrived. Perhaps the departure of Adoree’ Jackson will lead to more touches on sweeps and screens. Perhaps.

Oct 27, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Trojans wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (6) runs against California Golden Bears cornerback Traveon Beck (22) in the fourth quarter at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Outside Receiver 1

Projected Starter: #6 Michael Pittman, So.

With Darreus Rogers on his way to the NFL, opportunities for Pittman should open up greatly. As a freshman he had six catches for 82 yards, but he’ll be expected to step into a primetime role as a sophomore.

Rotation: #10 Jalen Greene, RS-Jr.

Greene slid into the slot when USC needed bodies there midway through the 2016 season, but began the campaign on the outside and should be back there behind Pittman as a veteran option.

Rotation: Joseph Lewis, Fr.

Lewis is a mouthwatering talent and the departures at receiver should make it much easier to break through for playing time as a true freshman than the 2016 class found.

USC wide receiver Tyler Vaughns during practice at Howard Jones Field. (Alicia de Artola/Reign of Troy)

Outside Receiver 2

Projected Starter: #21 Tyler Vaughns, RS-Fr.

With Darreus Rogers on his way to the NFL, it’s time for the highly-touted Vaughns to get his shot after a redshirt season.

Rotation: #17 Josh Imatorbhebhe, RS-Fr.

Imatorbhebhe was a raw but talented early enrollee in 2016 and could challenge Vaughns for starting reps with a strong offseason. Based on the accomplishments of his brother, the sky is the limit.

Rotation: Randal Grimes, Fr.

Grimes is an intriguing athlete at 6-foot-4, providing a dangerous one-on-one option in the absence of De’Quan Hampton and Isaac Whitney. He may end up redshirting, but depth is not so certain to project that yet.

Sep 26, 2015; Tempe, AZ, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Deontay Burnett (80) reacts as he celebrates on the sidelines in the fourth quarter against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Slot Receiver

Projected Starter: #80 Deontay Burnett, Jr.

Burnett proved his worth after taking over the starting job from the injured Steven Mitchell. Even with Mitchell’s return, it’s hard to see Burnett being knocked from the top spot.

Rotation: #7 Steven Mitchell, RS Sr.

Mitchell’s latest long-term injury may keep him out for most of the offseason and there’s no telling in what condition he’ll be when he gets back on the field. Pencil him in as the back up.

Rotation: #81 Trevon Sidney, RS-Fr.

After Mitchell’s injury, Jalen Greene was shifted over to the slot to play behind Burnett while Signey and Velus Jones redshirted. With that developmental year completed, Sidney should be ready to step in and play this time around.

Reserve: #23 Velus Jones Jr., RS-Fr.

The logjam in the slot should limit Jones’ gametime in 2017 unless injuries or other circumstances open up opportunities.

October 8, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans tight end Daniel Imatorbhebhe (88) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Colorado Buffaloes during the first half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Tight End

Projected Starter: #88 Daniel Imatorbhebhe, RS-So.

After a breakout season in 2016, Imatorbhebhe is set up to take on an even bigger role as an already established weapon in the USC passing game. The loss of Darreus Rogers and JuJu Smith-Schuster could lead to even more reliance on the big tight end.

Back Up: #82 Tyler Petite, Jr.

Petite took a back seat to Imatorbhebhe, but Taylor McNamara’s departure means more opportunities to see the field while Sam Darnold’s comfort in finding the tight end should increase his involvement.

Rotation: #86 Cary Angeline, RS Fr.

After a redshirt season, Angeline will see his first taste of the action as a passing option.

Redshirt: Josh Falo, Fr.

Falo has the ability to contribute right away, but strong depth at tight end already in place projects him as a redshirt.

Redshirt: Erik Krommenhoek, Fr.

Krommenhoek is a darkhorse contender to see playing time as a true freshman because his blocking ability is a clearer replacement for McNamara than the other options USC has at tight end. Still, the early prediction is a redshirt.

Oct 11, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Southern California Trojans guard Toa Lobendahn (50) against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Left Tackle

Projected Starter: #50 Toa Lobendahn, Sr.

Lobendahn is coming back from his second season-ending knee injury so there are no guarantees that he’ll even be in shape to start for USC at one of the most critical positions on the offensive line. Having said that, he has the most experience at left tackle of the returning offensive linemen.

Back Up: #76 Clayton Johnston, RS-So.

Johnston saw action at left tackle in 2016, so he’ll certainly be in the mix to compete to replace Chad Wheeler. A strong enough spring and fall could see him rise to a starting position.

Redshirt: Austin Jackson, Fr.

A heralded offensive lineman coming out of high school, Jackson would have to hit the ground running in the fall to break into the line up. However, with open spots, there’s nothing stopping him from making a big impression early.

Redshirt: Andrew Vorhees, Fr.

As an early enrollee, Vorhees has a leg up on his fellow freshman with the spring semester to develop before competition for places heats up in the fall. Like Jackson, the opportunity will be there. But like Jackson, he’s listed as a redshirt on the principle that true freshman linemen need time to develop.

USC offensive lineman Chris Brown during practice at Howard Jones Field. (Alicia de Artola/Reign of Troy)

Left Guard

Projected Starter: #77 Chris Brown, RS-So.

Damien Mama declared early for the NFL draft, leaving the left guard starting job up for grabs. The simplest solution is usually the best solution, so for now it’s easiest to project Brown to step up. He already shared the starting spot with Mama off-and-on for the last two seasons. Still, Toa Lobendahn could be in line to return to guard, which is his natural position, perhaps prompting Brown to move to tackle. Either way, Brown will get the first crack at locking down the position during spring camp.

Rotation: #63 Roy Hemsley, RS-So.

Hemsley moved from tackle to guard in 2016, but never saw the field during his redshirt freshman season. Shuffling along the line could open the door for him to break into the rotation this year.

Redshirt: Jalen McKenzie, Fr.

McKenzie says he’s coming to USC as a tackle, but he’s played across the offensive line, so for now we’ll pencil him in at guard because of the crowd on the outside.

Sep 10, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; General view of the line of scrimmage as USC Trojans center Nico Falah (74) snaps the ball against the Utah State Aggies during a NCAA football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Center

Projected Starter: #74 Nico Falah, RS-Sr.

At this point, even the return of a healthy Toa Lobendahn shouldn’t boot Falah from his starting job. The redshirt senior served as a reliable center in Lobendahn’s absence in 2016 and has spent a year building chemistry with blocking beside Viane Talamaivao and snapping to Sam Darnold.

Back Up: #66 Cole Smith, RS-So.

When USC was light on centers last year, guard Chris Brown got reps at the position ahead of the still-developing Smith. If he takes a step forward this offseason, Smith will likely serve as the Trojans back up center, but there is always the possibility that USC could turn to either Lobendahn or Brown if something were to happen to Falah.

Redshirt: Brett Neilon, Fr.

The four-star center, as with all the young linemen, is likely to redshirt in 2016.

Sep 12, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans left guard Viane Talamaivao (60) during the game against the Idaho Vandals at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Right Guard

Projected Starter: #60 Viane Talamaivao, Jr.

Talamaivao is USC’s most experienced linemen and the surest thing that the Trojans have up front. He’ll stay put at right guard. The only question concerns who will back him up.

Rotation: #56 Jordan Austin, RS-Jr.

The NCAA’s decision to deny Jordan Simmons his application for a sixth year of eligibility complicates the situation behind Talamaivao. Austin is the more experienced of the two players who served as reserves in 2016, so he’s the most likely to ascend towards more regular action.

Reserve: #65 Frank Martin, Fr.

Martin redshirted in 2016 and still appears in the development phase of his Trojan career. He’s likely to remain a reserve in 2017.

Mar 3, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans offensive tackle Chuma Edoga (70) at spring practice at Cromwell Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Right Tackle

Projected Starter: #70 Chuma Edoga, So.

Edoga was on the outs at times in 2016, so he’s not the sure thing that he should be at right tackle. Still, he’s the clearest replacement for Zach Banner. Neil Callaway could opt to take advantage of his experience by using him at left tackle, but for now the simple solution wins out with Edoga on the right.

Back Up: #78 Nathan Smith, RS-Fr.

Smith suffered a knee injury during bowl prep, so his availability for the coming season will depend on his ability to recover by the fall. If he gets back on the field quickly, he’ll be a clear option to back up Edoga.

Redshirt: Alijah Vera-Tucker, Fr.

Vera-Tucker may be polished enough to see action right away, which is a good thing for USC if Smith’s knee injury holds him out through fall camp. Still, as a true freshman offensive lineman, the safe bet is to expect a redshirt.

Nov 26, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (42) tackles Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) in the second quarter during a NCAA football game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Outside Linebacker

Projected Starter: #42 Uchenna Nwosu, RS-So.

Nwosu impressed in his first year starting at the outside linebacker position and will only be expected to grow from there.

Rotation: #34 Olajuwon Tucker, Sr.

Suspended for the Rose Bowl due to academic ineligibility, it’s not entirely clear what to expect of Tucker in 2016. He’ll miss spring camp but if he can get back on the right track academically the lack of depth at linebacker should have him in the rotation.

Redshirt: Juliano Falaniko, Fr.

Falaniko was the top player in American Samoa, but he’ll need time to put on bulk and adjust to the college game. A redshirt is likely on the cards.

USC defensive lineman Malik Dorton during practice at the LA Coliseum. (Alicia de Artola/Reign of Troy)

Defensive Tackle

Projected Starter: Jay Tufele, Fr.

USC’s defensive tackle position barely existed in 2016 as the Trojans favored a two-man front with Stevie Tu’ikolovatu and Rasheem Green. With greater depth overall, it’s reasonable to expect Clancy Pendergast will be more willing to use three-man fronts in 2017, but part of that may be tied to the new and explosive toy he’ll have in Tufele.

Rotation: #44 Malik Dorton, RS-Jr.

Dorton started at DT against Alabama, but USC’s line up included a nickel formation for the remainder of the season. Though Dorton may warrant more confidence this year, for now the position appears ripe for a newcomer to steal the starting job.

Rotation: #98 Josh Fatu, Sr.

The junior college transfer performed admirably in his first year as a Trojan and could be a useful figure for USC again this season across multiple positions.

Reserve: #93 Liam Jimmons, So.

Jimmons redshirted in 2016, but with improving depth across the defensive line, major action may still be a year away.

Sep 5, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans defensive tackle Kenny Bigelow (95) tackles Arkansas Red Wolves quarterback Fredi Knighten (9) at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Nose Tackle

Projected Starter: #95 Kenny Bigelow, RS-Sr.

Coming back from a knee injury, this is the last chance for Bigelow to make his mark at USC. His ability, when healthy, is good enough to lock down a starting job, but that could depend greatly on how early newcomers can make a big impression.

Back Up: Marlon Tuipulotu, Fr.

Tuipulotu is enrolled and will be able to participate in spring camp, giving him a leg up in the race to replace Stevie Tu’ikolovatu. The four-star defensive tackle is big, strong and explosive, so it would be no surprise to see him elevate his place in the pecking order quickly. Still, he’s a true freshman, which is never a sure thing.

Rotation: #92 Jacob Daniel, Jr.

Despite major depth issues in 2016, Daniel never really broke through, playing in just eight games as a sophomore. He could take a step forward in Year 3, but the competition will be as stiff as it has ever been.

Redshirt: Brandon Pili, Fr.

Pili is an exciting prospect for the future, but it would be a surprise to see him in action as a true freshman.

Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Trace McSorley (9) throws under pressure from USC Trojans defensive tackle Rasheem Green (94) during the third quarter of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive End

Projected Starter: #94 Rasheem Green, Jr.

Green garnered an All-Pac-12 honorable mention in 2016, taking on a bigger role as a full-time starter at defensive end for his sophomore year. With a team-best six sacks on the season, expectations will only rise for his junior campaign. He stands as the surest thing USC has on the defensive line at the moment.

Rotation: #89 Christian Rector, RS-So.

Though given limited opportunities, Rector showed great promise seeing action in 12 games last year. He’s not expected to rise into a starting job, but he could hold down a role as a regular and contributing member of the rotation.

Reserve: #53 Kevin Scott, RS-So.

Scott was academically ineligible for the Rose Bowl, so his status is up in the air for 2017.

Redshirt: Jacob Lichtenstein, Fr.

The three-star from Florida has intriguing size, but he needs a year to develop in Los Angeles, so expect a redshirt season.

January 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans defensive tackle Stevie Tu’ikolovatu (96) and defensive end Porter Gustin (45) bring down Penn State Nittany Lions running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the second half of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Predator

Projected Starter: #45 Porter Gustin, Jr.

Gustin lived in opposing backfields last year, leading USC with 13 tackles for loss. He’s a lock to remain a starter after a Pac-12 honorable mention and should be in line to raise his profile even higher.

Rotation: #90 Connor Murphy, So.

Murphy played in all 13 games in 2016 as a true freshman and, with plans to shadow Gustin in the weight room, should be well on his way to a greater trust level with the coaching staff on the outside.

Rotation: #99 Oluwole Betiku, So.

There’s a reason Betiku was a five-star coming out of high school, with mouthwatering measurables. However, his polish certainly needed work as evidenced by participation in only five games last year. He improved as the season went on, however, and will be expected to see more regular reps.

Redshirt: Hunter Echols, Fr.

Considering USC’s depth at predator, Echols appears set to sit and grow as a redshirt in Year 1.

Sep 23, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes running back Zack Moss (2) runs the ball in the first quarter against USC Trojans linebacker Cameron Smith (35) at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports

Middle Linebacker

Projected Starter: #35 Cameron Smith, Jr.

Smith was less than 100 percent as a sophomore, still getting back to full speed after his season-ending knee injury in 2015. That’s actually an exciting thing to note because he still led USC in tackles by some margin and commanded the middle of the Trojan defense as a Pac-12 second-team selection. He’ll be especially important to the Trojans in 2016 as the lone returning starter of USC’s inside linebackers.

Rotation: Tyler Katoa, Fr.

Katoa was a three-star prospect, but he split time as a quarterback in high school and will now be able to focus all his energy on living up to his promise as a linebacker. He’s an early enrollee, so he’ll have a valuable head start this spring, much like Smith before him. Since USC needs every body they have at linebacker, that’s a very good thing.

USC linebacker Jordan Iosefa during practice at Howard Jones Field. (Alicia de Artola/Reign of Troy)

Weakside Linebacker

Projected Starter: #56 Jordan Iosefa, So.

Iosefa was expected to redshirt as a freshman but he impressed during fall camp and played in all 13 games in 2016. He’s now the favorite to ascend to the starting job vacated by Michael Hutchings.

Rotation: #10 John Houston, RS-So.

Houston came to USC as a heralded recruit, but a back injury limited his role early in his career while the fellow linebackers in his class rose to contributing and starting roles. Back healthy, the Serra-product participated in every game for the Trojans as a redshirt freshman but remains a tough read. He appeared behind Iosefa in the pecking order during the 2016 season, so until he makes a push at the starting job, that’s where he’ll stay.

Rotation: Levi Jones, Fr.

Jones is the wildcard of USC’s linebacker group in 2017. Capable of playing inside or outside, it’s tough to imagine the talented four-star not seeing the field early. It’s just a question of whether or not he makes a push for the open WILL spot or takes up a spot backing up Uchenna Nwosu at the SAM.

USC defensive back Iman Marshall during practice at the LA Coliseum. (Alicia de Artola/Reign of Troy)

Cornerback 1

Projected Starter: #8 Iman Marshall, Jr.

Playing in the shadow of Adoree’ Jackson for two years, the former five-star must rise to the occasion as the top dog at cornerback for USC in 2017. The evidence that he’s capable of doing just that is strong. He earned an All-Pac-12 honorable mention as one of USC’s most underrated defenders last year.

Rotation: #23 Jonathan Lockett, Sr.

Lockett is coming off a hip injury which ended his junior season prematurely and it’s not clear how soon he’ll be back or what shape he’ll be in when he does. If healthy, Lockett should be set to see much more time in the rotation, having started five games in the nickel last year.

Rotation: #14 Isaiah Langley, Jr.

Langley’s career has never quite taken off due to untimely injuries, but he’ll once again have the opportunity to fight for time as a junior.

Redshirt: Je’Quari Godfrey, Fr.

Godfrey’s size makes him as an intriguing prospect as USC brought in with the 2017 recruiting class, but the knee injury which made him such a recruiting gamble should ensure a redshirt season to start things out.

USC defensive back Jack Jones during practice at Howard Jones Field. (Alicia de Artola/Reign of Troy)

Cornerback 2

Projected Co-Starter: #1 Jack Jones, So.

The race to become USC’s next starting cornerback is too close to call. Jones has the accolades and the hype, but was clearly a work in progress as a true freshman. If he can take the step forward into his sophomore campaign, he’ll be the favorite to win the job.

Projected Co-Starter: #27 Ajene Harris, RS-Jr.

However, Harris was also in his first year as a college cornerback and outranked Jones in the pecking order for most of the 2016 season. His bright performances and growing grasp of the defensive side of the ball should give Harris a puncher’s chance to beat out the more heralded recruit.

Rotation: Greg Johnson, Fr.

Johnson may end up redshirting, but his versatile ability suggests he’ll find somewhere to ply his trade as a freshman.

Rotation: #17 Keyshawn “Pie” Young, So.

Though he was expected to redshirt in 2016, Young was thrown into the action due to injury problems and depth concerns in the cornerback group. That experience should serve him well, but it’s anyone’s guess just how far he’ll climb up the pecking order. A switch to receiver is always on the table as well.

Sep 23, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; USC Trojans defensive back Chris Hawkins (4) prior to a NCAA football game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Strong Safety

Projected Starter: #4 Chris Hawkins, RS-Sr.

Hawkins split time as the third safety in the rotation in 2016, serving behind Marvell Tell and as a co-starter with Leon McQuay III. With McQuay graduated, Hawkins is the obvious choice to take over the full-time starting job in his final season.

Rotation: Bubba Bolden, Fr.

Challengers to Hawkins include a young talent like Bubba Bolden, whose size and physical ability make him ideal for Clancy Pendergast’s defensive system. The freshman will certainly get the opportunity to compete, but safety is a position packed full with talent at USC, so he’ll have to beat out plenty of capable players to get there.

Rotation: Isaiah Pola-Mao, Fr.

Pola-Mao, like Bolden, is simply too talented a prospect to not have a chance as a true freshman. The tall, instinctual big-hitting safety is bringing the right attitude to the Trojans and could certainly make the case for early playing time.

Rotation: #37 Matt Lopes, RS-Sr.

It’s not clear if Lopes, a former walk-on, will return for his redshirt senior season or go on to the next phase of his life after graduation. If he comes back, his experience should earn him reps.

Reserve: #28 C.J. Pollard, RS-Fr.

After a redshirt season, Pollard would be expected to rise into the rotation, but with a crowd vying for spots, it’s difficult to see where he fits.

Oct 17, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) flips upside down in the air while being tackled by Southern California Trojans safety Marvell Tell III (7) at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeats Southern California 41-31. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Free Safety

Projected Starter: #7 Marvell Tell, Jr.

Tell started wire-to-wire last year despite stumbles on the field as a sophomore. Clancy Pendergast and company will hope that he settles in at a higher level in 2017, but he’s a shoo-in to keep his starting place despite plenty of competition for places around him.

Rotation: #21 Jamel Cook, Fr.

Cook might have competed for playing time as a freshman if not for an offseason foot injury, which forced his redshirt. Now back in pads and ready to go, his stature and physical approach to the game makes him the perfect understudy to Tell.

Rotation: #30 Ykili Ross, RS-So.

No position has more question marks all the way through the depth chart than safety, which is evidenced by both Ykili Ross and John Plattenburg. Ross arrived at USC as an exciting young talent who famously committed by announcing he’d spend the next three years as a Trojan, but entering his third year, he has yet to make a meaningful contribution. This could be his moment to rise to a more visible role. Or he could end up riding the bench.

Rotation: #24 John Plattenburg, Sr.

Like Ross, Plattenburg is hard to figure out, especially considering the success of his freshman season. A concussion kept him out for half of his junior season, so a healthy run may be enough to change his fortunes in 2017. However, the Trojans have added more competition to the pool this year, so his future is up in the air.

Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; USC Trojans place kicker Matt Boermeester (39) celebrates kicking the game winning field goal with place kicker Wyatt Schmidt (46) during the fourth quarter of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Kicker

Projected Starter: #39 Matt Boermeester, RS-Sr.

Following his Rose Bowl heroics, injury is the only thing which could supplant Boermeester as USC’s starter at kicker.

Back Up: #49 Michael Brown, RS-Fr.