Aaron Donald visits USC practice during huge recruiting weekend for the Trojans
The USC Trojans held a Saturday practice in front of some big-time defensive line targets in the 2025 class. But they weren’t the only notable defensive linemen in attendance. Former Los Angeles Rams great and future NFL Hall of Famer Aaron Donald was on hand as a guest of USC defensive line coach Eric Henderson.
Henderson and Donald have a close relationship from the five years Henderson spent as the Rams’ defensive line coach. During that time, Donald earned four First-team All-Pro honors, was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2020 and earned a spot on the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team.
Donald announced his retirement from the NFL on March 15 after 10 seasons.
“I’m satisfied with what I was able to do in 10 years, and I think it’s time for me, at 32 years old, to retire from football and, you know, jump into the next step of my career, my life,” Donald said for his decision. “And it’s time to move on.”
The moment he announced his retirement, the potential for Donald to make some appearances at USC became a topic of conversation due his connection to Henderson and the proximity of USC’s campus. While there’s no word yet if Donald would actually consider any type of official role on the USC staff, getting him on campus and in view of the Trojans and some standout recruits is the next best thing.
Unofficial visitors for the Trojans this weekend include Five-Star Plus+ defensive lineman Elijah Griffin, five-star defensive lineman Justus Terry, four-star edge Isaiah Gibson, four-star edge Justin Hill, four-star edge Marco Jones, three-star defensive lineman Landon Rink and three-star defensive lineman Dilan Battle. There are NCAA rules regarding what kind of interaction Donald can have with recruits on campus, but there is zero doubt the recruits were aware of Donald’s presence.
USC invested a ton in its defensive line development this offseason, pulling Henderson away from the Rams and pairing him with Shaun Nua as defensive line/defensive ends coaches. The Trojans also brought in Skyler Jones as a defensive analyst working with the line. He spent last season with the Oregon Ducks and was with the Rams before that. And much has been made of the increased size across the USC defensive line early in camp, either from new additions or more dedication to that through the strength and conditioning program this past offseason.
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