Lincoln Riley Expected to Flip 4-Star DL on Same Day as Oregon Decommitment
LOS ANGELES, CA – The recruiting momentum for USC and head coach Lincoln Riley shows no signs of slowing down, as the Trojans are now in prime position to land a commitment from four-star defensive lineman Tomuhini Topui. The highly touted recruit decommitted from Oregon on Tuesday, and within hours, he was spotted at USC’s campus attending a spring practice. This rapid sequence of events has sparked widespread speculation that Riley and his staff are on the verge of flipping the talented prospect.
USC’s Red-Hot Recruiting Run
The Trojans have been dominant on the recruiting trail for the 2026 class, securing the No. 1 ranking in the country per 247Sports. With 15 verbal pledges already in place, Riley and his staff are constructing a powerhouse roster that is set to compete at the highest level. If Topui officially commits to USC, he would mark the 16th addition to an already elite class, further solidifying the Trojans’ standing as a national recruiting leader.
“Lincoln Riley and his staff have been relentless in their pursuit of top talent,” said a recruiting analyst from 247Sports. “They are recruiting at an elite level, and Topui’s potential flip is just another example of how USC is excelling in this cycle.”
The Timing of Topui’s Visit
The timing of Topui’s decommitment and immediate visit to USC has raised eyebrows. Just hours after parting ways with Oregon, the 6-foot-4, 275-pound defensive lineman was on USC’s campus, watching practice and meeting with coaches. His presence at the Trojans’ facilities signals that a commitment could be imminent.
Recruiting expert Steve Wiltfong of On3 has already logged a prediction in favor of USC landing Topui, reinforcing the notion that the Trojans have taken a commanding lead in his recruitment. If Riley is successful in flipping Topui, it would mark yet another major recruiting victory over a Pac-12 rival, proving USC’s continued dominance in the region.
What Topui Brings to the Table
Topui is regarded as one of the top defensive linemen in the 2026 class. His combination of size, strength, and agility makes him a formidable force in the trenches. He has drawn comparisons to some of the best defensive linemen to come through the high school ranks in recent years, and his potential to make an early impact at the college level is undeniable.
“He’s got everything you look for in an elite defensive lineman,” said a scouting director at Rivals. “Great explosiveness off the line, solid technique, and a motor that doesn’t quit. If he lands at USC, he’s going to be a game-changer for their defense.”
The Bigger Picture for USC
Securing Topui’s commitment would be another statement move by Lincoln Riley and his staff, proving that USC is the destination of choice for top-tier recruits. The Trojans have aggressively targeted defensive talent in the 2026 cycle, and adding a player of Topui’s caliber would further bolster their defensive front as they prepare for the future.
With USC set to enter the Big Ten, the importance of landing high-impact defensive linemen cannot be overstated. The competition will only get tougher, and Riley’s ability to attract top talent will play a crucial role in the Trojans’ success in their new conference.
Looking Ahead
While no official commitment date has been set, all signs point to Topui leaning heavily toward USC. Given the rapid developments in his recruitment, it wouldn’t be surprising if an announcement comes sooner rather than later.
For now, USC fans will have to wait and see if Riley can close the deal. But with the way things are trending, the Trojans could be celebrating another major recruiting victory in the very near future.
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