Lincoln Riley‘s USC isn’t just building a staff—they’re stacking NFL experience. In 2024, they brought in D’Anton Lynn as defensive coordinator, fresh off coaching defensive backs for the Texans and Ravens. That same year, Jim Hostler, with over 20 years of NFL coaching experience and a stint as the 49ers’ OC back in 2007, joined as a defensive analyst. Clearly, USC isn’t just talking about success; they’re building it, brick by NFL-experienced brick. And they’re not stopping there.

USC’s NFL pipeline is flowing strong. Just days after losing assistant linebackers coach Bryson Allen-Williams to Georgia, Riley and Co. have struck again. Their latest hire? Straight from the Bill Belichick coaching tree. USC isn’t just replacing coaches; they’re upgrading. Big moves. Bold choices. And the latest? According to Matt Zenitz, “USC is expected to hire AJ Howard as assistant linebackers coach, sources tell @CBSSports/@247Sports.”

Well, Howard has been grinding. He spent the last two years coaching outside linebackers at App State. Before that, he worked at Louisville and even scouted in the NFL with the New England Patriots. As a former App State safety with two years of NFL experience, he knows the game inside and out. His talent hasn’t gone unnoticed—he was named to the 35 Under 35 Class for 2024 by the American Football Coaches Association.

Howard’s career took a turn in 2019 when he landed a spot on the Patriots’ practice squad under Bill Belichick. Though his time was brief, Howard gained invaluable experience in the Patriot’s system. Now, he brings that mindset to USC. Looks like another sharp football mind joins the Trojans’ pursuit of greatness.

This is a massive win for USC. Teaming AJ Howard with Rob Ryan could create a truly elite linebacker unit. USC isn’t just loading up on talent on the field; they’re building a coaching powerhouse on the sidelines too. But Riley’s not finished—he’s doubling down on NFL experience, signaling a major power shift at USC.

A new era dawns for Lincoln Riley and Co.

USC Trojans got a new vibe. Lincoln Riley and his revamped coaching staff, including key figures like Rob Ryan and Chad Bowden, are ushering in a new era of Trojan football.

At their opening press conference, the shift was palpable. Ryan, a 30-year NFL veteran, brings a no-nonsense approach, while Bowden exudes confidence and a connection with players. “Obviously here I’m joining the best coaching staff in the country. Riley is right there with [Sean] McVay. They’re the best offensive coaches in the country. I don’t care what league it is—that’s just the truth,” Ryan declared. Beyond the NFL experience, a game-changing move at the GM position is adding to the championship buzz around USC.

Bowden, the 2024 FootballScoop Player Personnel Director of the Year, fresh off a national championship appearance with Notre Dame, is tasked with keeping the roster stocked.

Riley, entering his fourth season, explained GM Bowden’s role: scouting, recruiting, and salary cap management. At just 30, Bowden built three top-15 recruiting classes at Notre Dame. And get this! They also hired two of Bowden’s former Notre Dame colleagues: Dre Brown, the executive director of scouting and personnel, and Zaire Turner, assistant athletic director of recruiting operations.

The early signs are promising for the Trojans with recent signings like four-star linebacker AJ Tuitele and three-star edge Jadyn Ramos. With a stacked staff and renewed energy, the question is: can this translate to big wins? 2025 will be the ultimate test.