Jefferson remains solid with USC

Noah Jefferson committed to USC in the spring just days after landing a scholarship offer, but rumors about his place in the Trojans' recruiting class have swirled for months.

Academics were long thought to be a hurdle for the four-star defensive end, but he says that's not the case. Jefferson has also continued to hear from Arizona State throughout the year, but his pledge to USC remains firm heading into the final month before national signing day.

"ASU is trying to get me to visit, but I'm not going to," Jefferson said. "I'm solid with the Trojans and couldn't be more excited to sign. I'm just ready to get started."

Jefferson is set to officially visit Los Angeles on Jan. 16 along with many of his class members. He played both ways at Henderson (Nev.) Liberty this past fall and sounds prepared for the next level.

"Playing tight end and defensive end helped me get into a lot better shape and it will probably help me understand how to defend certain offenses," Jefferson said.

Before the dead period kicked off, Williams drew in-home visits from USC defensive line coach Chris Wilson and defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox on consecutive weeks. While the Trojans have continued their pursuit of five-star defensive end Rasheem Green and Oregon commit Canton Kaumatule, among others, Jefferson has remained a priority.

"Their message is that I could be a very productive player at USC," Jefferson said. "I know I've got to be prepared heading in there because Leonard Williams is probably on his way out and there's a good chance for early playing time. The coaches have told me that I could be just as good as [Williams], if not better. We're practically the same size already, and it's just about how much I exert myself once I get on campus."

This week the 6-foot-5, 285-pound prospect will represent the West in the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl. With the event being held in Southern California, Jefferson will get a preview of his future home.

"It will be big for me," Jefferson said. "I'll have the opportunity to show why I'm a four-star and why I'm headed to USC. I've worked hard for so long and this is the time to show it off. Going up against good competition should be fun. The linemen will be more athletic, the running backs will be quicker and harder to bring down, and the quarterbacks will be smarter. But it will be fun to match up against that and show that Las Vegas does have some talent."

Jefferson had 35 total tackles, including 6.5 sacks, in 12 games this past season. On offense, he caught 12 passes for 233 yards and three touchdowns.