Ever wonder what it’s like when a five-star recruit first steps onto a college campus? USC’s new cornerback RJ Sermons is already turning heads, even among the seasoned veterans and coaching staff. His raw speed and surprising quick grasp of the playbook have everyone talking. What does this mean for the Trojans’ future defense?
The arrival of five-star cornerback RJ Sermons at USC has already sent ripples through the Trojans’ football program, with coaches and seasoned veterans quickly taking note of his exceptional talent and early potential. Sermons, a highly touted prospect who reclassified from the 2026 to the 2025 class, enrolled over the summer, bringing with him a pedigree that suggests a significant future impact for the USC Trojans.
Hailing from Rancho Cucamonga, Sermons is no stranger to the USC campus, having been a frequent visitor since his elementary school days. His deep connection to the program is further solidified by his father, Rodney Sr., who proudly donned the cardinal and gold as a Trojans running back from 1994-97, embedding a strong legacy within the family.
Originally ranked as the No. 1 cornerback in the 2026 class, Sermons’ decision to reclassify to 2025 and enroll early has positioned him among a growing trend of elite prospects accelerating their collegiate careers. This move mirrors that of other top recruits like defensive lineman Jahkeem Stewart and tight end Mark Bowman, all adjusting their timelines to join the USC football program sooner.
While fans might eagerly anticipate immediate playing time from a five-star talent, the coaching staff’s current plan points towards a redshirt year for Sermons. This strategic approach is designed for optimal long-term development, allowing the young phenom, who won’t turn 18 until November, crucial time to adapt to the collegiate level, refine his skills, and mature physically, a path that has proven successful for other USC defensive backs.
Defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn has already been vocal about Sermons’ standout attributes, particularly his undeniable speed. Lynn emphasized the challenges of joining a program mid-summer but highlighted Sermons’ immediate athletic prowess, stating, “His speed is apparent and he has a lot of ability.” The focus for the coaching staff is to provide him ample opportunities to learn and grow, embracing the inevitable early mistakes as part of the developmental process for a player with such a bright future.
Sermons’ athletic capabilities extend beyond the football field, evidenced by his remarkable track and field achievements. He recorded an impressive 20.88 in the 200 meters and a personal best of 10.30 in the 100 meters, both ranking as the second-fastest times in California during the past track season. These elite sprint times underscore the raw speed and explosive power that make him such a coveted five-star prospect.
Beyond the physical gifts, Sermons’ coachability has particularly impressed veteran players like redshirt senior cornerback DeCarlos Nicholson. Nicholson lauded the young recruit’s ability to quickly absorb coaching instructions and translate them into improved on-field performance. This willingness to learn and adapt showcases a maturity that bodes well for his integration into the Trojans’ defensive scheme and his overall success in college football recruiting.
The collective sentiment from both the coaching staff and experienced players paints a clear picture: while RJ Sermons possesses immense natural talent and a coveted five-star rating, his ultimate success at USC will be forged through a dedicated developmental path. His unique combination of athletic gifts and a receptive mindset positions him as a cornerstone for the future of the USC Trojans defense, promising an exciting trajectory for this rising star in USC football.
