In a surprising turn of events, USC Trojans’ starting left guard, Emmanuel Pregnon, has entered the NCAA transfer portal, as reported on January 3, 2025. This decision comes shortly after Pregnon had announced his intention to return to USC for the 2025 season, even accepting an invitation to the East-West Shrine Bowl, a showcase for NFL prospects.
Pregnon, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 320 pounds, has been a cornerstone of USC’s offensive line. Over his collegiate career, he has accumulated 24 starts and earned All-Big Ten honors in 2024, underscoring his significant contribution to the team’s offensive performance.
His departure marks a notable loss for the Trojans, who have already seen a considerable number of players enter the transfer portal this offseason. According to On3Sports’ team transfer portal rankings, USC has lost 21 players, ranking 66th out of 70 FBS programs in terms of player retention.
The timing of Pregnon’s decision is particularly impactful, as it leaves USC with limited time to find a replacement before the upcoming season. The offensive line is a critical component of the team’s strategy, and losing a player of Pregnon’s caliber necessitates swift action from the coaching staff to fill the void.
This development also highlights the dynamic nature of college football’s transfer portal, where player movements can significantly alter team compositions in a short period. For USC, the focus will now shift to reinforcing their offensive line, either by promoting from within their current roster or by seeking talent from the transfer portal themselves.
As the Trojans prepare for the upcoming season, the departure of a key starter like Pregnon presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the team to adapt and strengthen their lineup.
