Elijah Hughes Transfer Portal: 3 landing spots for USC defensive lineman as he exits the Trojans

USC Trojans defensive lineman Elijah Hughes has entered the transfer portal. Hughes was a three-star prospect in the Class of 2023 and has played sparingly during his two seasons at USC.

Hughes finished his career with the Trojans after recording 12 tackles, including three for loss and 1.5 sacks. According to On3, he also has a "do not contact" tag which likely means he knows his destination.

With the defensive lineman in the transfer portal, here are three potential landing spots for him.

Elijah Hughes transfer portal landing spots

#1. Virginia Tech

The Virginia Tech Hokies heavily recruited Elijah Hughes in high school, so it would make sense if they look to finally land him.

Hughes is from North Virginia, so he would get to play close to home. With Virginia Tech, Hughes would be in line for a bigger role, which is likely what he wants.

Virginia Tech's starting defensive tackles were a senior and a graduate transfer, so there is a need at DT for the Hokies.

#2. UCF Knights

The UCF Knights hired Alex Grinch to be their defensive coordinator on Tuesday, which could make Elijah Hughes an option. Grinch was USC's defensive coordinator during Hughes' freshman year, so there is a familiarity between them.

Grinch will look to rebuild UCF's defense and will likely target players he's familiar with. Hughes can come in and be a rotational defensive lineman with UCF and have a chance to be a starter.

#3. Virginia

The final option for Elijah Hughes is going to the University of Virginia. As a native of the state, Hughes may want to return home and play for the Cavaliers. The team's starting defensive tackle was Jahmeer Carter, who is a graduate, so Virginia will look to improve its defensive line.

Hughes could come in and compete with Bryce Carter Jr. for the starting defensive tackle job.

Hughes has two years left of eligibility, so he will go to a school where he can play often and try to build up his resume to potentially be a pro. So, going home to Virginia would make a lot of sense, as he would be able to compete for the starting job and do it close to home with friends and family.