2026 class prospect Trashawn Ruffin confirms receiving scholarship from USC Trojans

Three-star defensive lineman Trashawn Ruffin from North Duplin High School in North Carolina has been turning heads in the recruiting race. He has already received offers from several top programs, including South Carolina, Georgia, NC State, Florida State and Charlotte.

Ruffin's recruitment took another step forward when USC defensive line coach Eric Henderson offered a scholarship to him on Sunday. The 6-foot-3, 303-pound DL announced the news on X, writing:

"After a great phone conversation with @Coach_Henny I am beyond blessed to have received an offer from the University of Southern California!!"

Despite growing up with a passion for basketball, Trashawn Ruffin transitioned to football at the age of eight, and it has been a journey worth watching. He played a key role in North Duplin’s successful 2023 season, where the team finished with a 9-3 record.

As a sophomore, Ruffin recorded 52 total tackles, eight tackles for loss and four sacks, showcasing his potential as a dominant force on the defensive line. In just two seasons, Ruffin has accumulated 20 solo tackles, 63 assisted tackles and eight sacks.

Trashawn Ruffin is ranked by On3 as the nation's 272 overall prospect, the No. 22 defensive lineman in the 2026 class and the No. 13 recruit in North Carolina. Rivals places him as the nation's No. 22 defensive lineman in the class and the No. 13 recruit in the state.

NC State is leading the race for Trashawn Ruffin's commitment

NC State is emerging as the frontrunner to land Trashawn Ruffin, according to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine, which gives the Wolfpack a 17.4% chance of securing his commitment.

"NC State offering early definitely means a lot," Ruffin told Pack Pride. "I actually camped there last summer, though, and they were showing a lot of interest then. But I actually picked up the offer right before a basketball game, which was a really good feeling."

Coach Dave Doeren's focus on strong defensive line play has made Ruffin a priority in the 2026 recruiting class. The Wolfpack has already secured a commitment from three-star quarterback Jacob Smith.

Charley Wiles, NC State’s defensive line coach, and Ruffin’s primary recruiter, has maintained close contact with the young prospect. The coach envisions him as a versatile force on the defensive line, especially as a nose guard, where his impact could be maximized. The program's facility also earned heavy praise from him.

"The stadium and weight room are huge," Ruffin said. "All their facilities are really nice. I really love the weight room. It's one of my favorite parts. I also like how when you pull up you see all the wolves standing on the mountain."

Trashawn Ruffin plans to visit NC State when it takes on Tennessee next weekend in Charlotte. However, other schools like Charlotte, South Carolina and Liberty are also in the mix, with 15.2%, 13.0% and 10.9% chances, respectively.