USC football has successfully landed a commitment from four-star edge rusher Xavier Griffin, a standout defensive prospect in the class of 2026. Griffin made his decision public over the weekend via social media, choosing the Trojans over several other top programs.
First and foremost thank the man above, my coaches, my teammates, my family, Coach Steve, Brandon Nabors, my bonus mom Shenita, and especially my mom! Much prayer, understanding, and support I have found my next home! #dawgwork #FightOn @CoachK_Smith @JoshNiblett @CoachD_GVL… pic.twitter.com/8yhzYISjpF
— Xavier Griffin (@zay_social) July 28, 2024
NEWS: 2026 4-star EDGE Xavier Griffin of Gainesville (Ga.) has committed to USC. #FightOn
Story: https://t.co/TEVsi4X0PF pic.twitter.com/SNyW3UQkRp
— ChadSimmons (@ChadSimmons_) July 27, 2024
The Trojans extended an offer to Griffin in January, and he has now committed to USC nearly six months later. During this period, Griffin also explored options by visiting or attending camps at Tennessee, Florida State, and Alabama.
Ranked as the No. 21 player in the 2026 class by ESPN, Griffin is the highest-rated recruit to commit to USC thus far for this class. His commitment adds to the Trojans’ 2026 class, which already includes cornerbacks Brandon Lockhart, Madden Riordan, and Dominick Kelly, along with wide receiver Ja’Myron Baker. Griffin’s commitment marks the third four-star recruit in this class.
Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, Griffin has been a formidable force at Gainesville High School in Gainesville, Georgia. In his sophomore season, he tallied 54 tackles, 15 sacks, and two forced fumbles. With two more years of high school eligibility, Griffin has ample opportunity to build on these impressive statistics.
Securing Griffin’s commitment is crucial for USC, especially following the recent loss of two top Georgia defensive recruits. Both Isaiah Gibson and Justus Terry, five-star defenders who had committed to the Trojans in March, de-committed within a day of each other in June.