The USC Trojans have secured an exciting addition to their 2026 recruiting class with the commitment of four-star cornerback Dominick Kelly from Tampa, Florida. Kelly, widely recognized as one of the top cornerbacks in the 2026 class, brings an elite combination of size, speed, and football intelligence to the Trojans’ defense. His commitment marks a significant recruiting victory for USC head coach Lincoln Riley and his staff, as they continue to build a team capable of competing for championships in the Pac-12 and beyond.
At 6 feet tall and 180 pounds, Dominick Kelly is a rising star in high school football and one of the most coveted cornerback prospects in the country. He has been a standout player at Tampa’s high-profile high school football scene, displaying excellent coverage skills, quick reflexes, and a natural ability to anticipate opposing quarterbacks’ movements. Rated as a four-star prospect, Kelly has garnered attention from some of the biggest programs across the country, receiving offers from Alabama, Ohio State, Florida, and several other top schools.
Kelly’s on-field performance speaks for itself. In his sophomore season, he recorded multiple interceptions, numerous pass breakups, and consistently locked down his side of the field against top-tier competition. His ability to cover speedy receivers in man-to-man situations while also contributing to run defense has set him apart. His physicality and aggressive play style align well with what USC is looking for in its secondary, as the Trojans aim to build a defense that can match up against some of the most explosive offenses in college football.
Dominick Kelly’s decision to commit to USC reflects both the allure of the Trojans’ program under Lincoln Riley and the potential he sees in USC’s defense. Under Riley’s leadership, USC has transformed into a high-powered, competitive team that combines offensive firepower with an increasingly dynamic defense. For Kelly, USC’s return to prominence, its attractive Los Angeles location, and its established pipeline to the NFL were all appealing factors.
In particular, the relationship Kelly built with USC’s coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Alex Grinch, played a significant role in his decision. Grinch’s aggressive, fast-paced defensive scheme is a great fit for Kelly’s style, giving him the opportunity to be a playmaker and develop his skills in a system that emphasizes versatility and instinctive play. Kelly noted in interviews that he was impressed by the defensive strategies and the level of attention USC’s coaches put into preparing players for the next level.
Another factor in Kelly’s decision was the future of USC football in the Big Ten, where they will face elite competition week after week. Playing against powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State offers Kelly a chance to challenge himself and gain valuable experience against top-tier talent, which will only enhance his development as he pursues a potential NFL career.
With Dominick Kelly on board, USC’s secondary has gained a valuable piece who could develop into a lockdown corner in the coming years. Kelly’s speed and ability to mirror receivers make him an asset in man coverage, while his instincts and physicality allow him to excel in zone schemes as well. His versatility means he could be deployed in different roles within USC’s defense, from covering outside receivers to stepping up in run support. His knack for reading quarterbacks and making plays on the ball will be a welcome addition to USC’s defense, which has been aiming to improve its takeaway count and prevent big plays.
One of Kelly’s strengths is his competitive mentality. Coaches and teammates alike have noted his relentless drive to improve and his willingness to put in extra work to perfect his technique. This work ethic aligns with USC’s culture, where the expectation is to compete at the highest level and strive for championships. As Kelly transitions into college football, this mentality will serve him well, particularly in the physically demanding Big Ten.
Kelly also brings a level of confidence that is essential for a cornerback, especially in high-stakes games. His confidence, combined with his athletic ability, makes him a player who is unafraid to take risks and challenge even the best receivers. This fearlessness will be a valuable asset as he faces off against some of the nation’s top offenses.
Landing Dominick Kelly sends a strong message to recruits nationwide that USC is building a well-rounded program with an emphasis on defensive excellence. Kelly’s commitment strengthens the Trojans’ recruiting footprint in Florida, a talent-rich state where competition for top prospects is fierce. By securing a four-star cornerback from Tampa, USC is demonstrating its national reach and ability to attract elite talent from all regions of the country.
Kelly’s decision could also create momentum for USC to attract more top defensive recruits, particularly in the secondary. With USC’s high-profile move to the Big Ten, recruiting defensive talent is crucial as the Trojans prepare to face the elite offenses of the Midwest. Kelly’s commitment could serve as a catalyst for other defensive players who are considering USC, giving the Trojans an edge in building a balanced roster capable of contending in their new conference.
Dominick Kelly’s commitment to USC is a major win for the Trojans and a testament to the program’s upward trajectory under Lincoln Riley. Kelly’s skill set, mentality, and potential to develop into a top-tier cornerback make him an ideal fit for USC’s defense, which is striving to reach new heights. As Kelly prepares to join the Trojans, fans and coaches alike are excited to see how he will impact USC’s secondary and bring his aggressive play style to the field.
For USC, adding a talent like Kelly is another step toward achieving the program’s long-term goals of national championships and Big Ten dominance. With Kelly’s commitment, the Trojans’ future looks brighter than ever, as they continue to assemble a team that can compete with the best.