Four-star Notre Dame DL target Braeden Jones gives surprise commitment to Lincoln Riley's USC

Four-star defensive lineman Braeden Jones has committed to USC's 2026 class. The standout from Mount Carmel High School in Chicago, Illinois announced his decision on Sunday afternoon, picking the Trojans over Michigan, Ohio State, Auburn and Ole Miss, among others.

Jones’ commitment comes after what has turned out to be a rollercoaster weekend for the Trojans. They hosted some top national recruits during their game against No. 4 Penn State on Saturday, which didn’t end in their favor as they lost 33-30 in overtime.

Despite the disappointing result, USC coach Lincoln Riley made a strong impression on Jones, who became the first of the visiting prospects to pledge his commitment to the program.

USC wasn’t considered the frontrunner in the edge rusher's recruitment. Most analysts expected either Notre Dame or Ohio State to land him. According to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine, Notre Dame had a 52.0% chance while USC trailed with 44.1%.

USC’s offer in May and a follow-up trip this weekend with his family sealed the deal. Jones shared why he chose the program with Rivals' Greg Smith.

"The LA vibe, the campus, the coaches and how appreciative they are of me," Jones said on Sunday. "I really felt the love going down there."

USC’s defensive line coach Eric Henderson also played a big role in Jones’ recruitment. He is now expected to play defensive end under Henderson, although he also possesses the versatility to shift into a three-technique role.

USC 2026 class update following Braeden Jones' commitment

Braeden Jones is the seventh player to commit to USC's 2026 class, which is No. 2 in the nation, according to On3 team rankings. He is the second defensive line prospect in the cycle, joining four-star defensive tackle Viliami Moala who committed in September.

Five committed players are four-star recruits. Besides Jones and Moala, the cycle also features edge rusher Xavier Griffin, cornerback Brandon Lockhart and wide receiver Ja’Myron Baker, as well as three-star CBs Joshua Holland and Madden Riordan.