USC reportedly plans to redshirt freshman linebacker Elijah Newby

USC football redshirt decisions have to be made and implemented. Elijah Newby is a primary focus of the Trojans’ plans right now.

USC football has a lot of decisions to make right now. With the Trojans eight games into their season, players who have not played more than four games can still potentially be redshirted. Obviously, USC’s injuries and roster limitations mean that some players will have to play in November. There’s no way to avoid that. Picking the right players to redshirt for the future is a very important matter for Lincoln Riley and his staff. Connor Morrissette of 247Sports reports that USC is planning to redshirt freshman linebacker Elijah Newby.

USC coaches have been high on Newby, and given the roster turnover we are likely to see in the coming offseason, having Newby preserve a year of eligibility would be a very important and helpful development for the Trojans. USC’s lack of defensive depth was exposed in 2024. Preserving any extra measure of depth for 2025 and beyond is valuable for this program. Hopefully the coaching staff’s intent to have Newby redshirt will come to fruition. It is not yet official and has to be nailed down.

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Linebacker Elijah Newby felt very comfortable with USC’s new defensive staff

This is good to see.

Elijah Newby, out of Cheshire (Connecticut) Academy, announced earlier this season that he would be committing to the University of Southern California.

“I am extremely excited to announce my commitment to The University of Southern California! As soon as I set foot on campus, I knew that USC was the best choice for my future. From the amazing coaches and players, state-of-the-art facilities, to the undeniable tradition and legacy academically and athletically. I am 100% committed to putting in the work to help our team succeed both on and off the field. I am truly grateful to God, my family, friends, and coaches for without your persistent support I would not be the man I am today. To my new Trojan Family, Fight On!”

Listed at 6-3 and 185 pounds, Newby is rated the No. 7 Connecticut recruit, the No. 51 linebacker, and the No. 531 prospect in the Class of 2024 on the 247Sports composite.

Newby played on offense and defense in high school. At tight end, he had 17 catches for 357 yards and 4 touchdowns. On defense he totaled 51 tackles and 1 interception.

As you can see below, one of D’Anton Lynn’s first visits after being hired as Lincoln Riley’s defensive coordinator was to Newby. He was the first 2024 recruit to sign with USC on Wednesday, at the start of the early signing period.

Clearly, Newby and Lynn hit it off, a great sign for what’s to come at USC next season.

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