Introduction to Husan Longstreet’s Decision
Background on Longstreet’s Arrival at USC
When Husan Longstreet arrived at USC a year ago, the expectation was the five-star freshman would be the Trojans’ future at quarterback.
Initial Expectations vs. Reality
But after just one season at USC, Longstreet is leaving. The true freshman passer and former top prospect officially entered the NCAA transfer portal Thursday, throwing the Trojans’ future plans at football’s most important position into question. USC has just two quarterbacks currently on the roster, one being a true freshman in Jonas Williams.
Current Quarterback Situation at USC
There’s no doubt, however, who will remain USC’s quarterback next season. Returning starter Jayden Maiava, who led the Big Ten in passing yards last season (3,711) announced his intent last month to play another season at USC, as opposed to declaring for the NFL draft.
Longstreet’s Decision to Leave
That left Longstreet with a choice: Spend another season on the sideline or search for opportunity elsewhere. USC coach Lincoln Riley made a plea for his young quarterback’s patience last month. “For any player, especially a quarterback, I don’t know if this would be the right time to leave this place,” Riley said. “This thing is getting pretty good. And I think a lot of people recognize that, both in what we have now and what we’re bringing in, where this thing is going.”
Reasoning Behind Longstreet’s Decision
But Longstreet’s father, Kevin, told On3 last month that his son was looking for a chance to contribute immediately. “He loves USC, the team and players, but no guarantees in life and Husan is a competitor,” Kevin Longstreet told On3’s Greg Biggins. “Everyone is saying ‘sit for another year, only need one good year.’ But there’s no guarantee Lincoln is back next year, what if we struggle and a new staff comes in? Then he has to learn whole new system. He wants to play now and give himself his best shot.”
Recruitment History
It wasn’t until late in the recruiting process in November 2024 that USC even emerged as a serious option for the Corona Centennial High product. He spent the previous seven months committed to Texas A&M, while USC already had a 2026 quarterback committed in Julian Lewis. But after a delicate dance of courting both quarterbacks, USC pivoted to Longstreet and managed to flip him from the Aggies. It was one of Riley’s most significant USC recruiting victories.
Performance and Future Eligibility
Longstreet appeared in four games as a true freshman, retaining his redshirt year. He’ll have four seasons of eligibility remaining wherever he ends up. He completed 13 of 15 passes for 103 yards and a touchdown, while rushing for another 76 yards and two scores.
Statement from Longstreet
“As a hometown kid, representing USC was an incredible opportunity I’ll always cherish,” Longstreet said in a statement on social media. “I’m excited for what’s ahead and ready to embrace the next opportunity with faith, purpose and gratitude.”
Impact on USC’s Future Plans
With Longstreet gone, expect USC to pursue a veteran passer in the transfer portal to fill the No. 3 spot on its depth chart, similar to how Sam Huard did last season.
Conclusion
Husan Longstreet’s decision to enter the transfer portal marks a significant turn in his collegiate football career and leaves USC with a gap to fill in its quarterback depth. As Longstreet seeks a new opportunity to contribute immediately, USC will likely look to the transfer portal to bolster its quarterback roster.
FAQs
- Why did Husan Longstreet decide to leave USC? Longstreet decided to leave USC in search of an opportunity to contribute immediately, as he did not want to spend another season on the sideline.
- How many seasons of eligibility does Longstreet have left? Longstreet has four seasons of eligibility remaining.
- What will USC likely do to address the quarterback position? USC will likely pursue a veteran passer in the transfer portal to fill the No. 3 spot on its depth chart.
- Who is expected to remain USC’s quarterback next season? Returning starter Jayden Maiava is expected to remain USC’s quarterback next season.
- What was Longstreet’s performance like in his freshman year? Longstreet completed 13 of 15 passes for 103 yards and a touchdown, while rushing for another 76 yards and two scores in four games.
