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Transfer portal CB Chasen Johnson flips from USC to SMU

Erik-McKinneyby: Erik McKinney12/15/24ErikTMcKinney
Central Florida Knights cornerback Chasen Johnson (27) is flagged for pass interference against Brigham Young Cougars wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) in the first half at FBC Mortgage Stadium
Central Florida Knights cornerback Chasen Johnson (27) (Russell Lansford-Imagn Images)

It was roughly a two-day commitment for former UCF cornerback Chasen Johnson to USC as he is now officially a part of SMU’s 2025 class after signing with the Mustangs on Saturday.

Johnson took an official visit to USC on Thursday and announced his commitment to the Trojans during that trip. Two days later, news broke that he had instead signed with SMU.

It came on the same day that former Virginia Tech and San Jose State cornerback DJ Harvey announced his commitment to the Trojans. USC needs to replace four seniors who earned a majority of the snaps at cornerback this season. Grabbing at least one transfer portal corner capable of taking on a starting role is a necessity for the Trojans.

Johnson played 452 snaps as a true freshman for UCF in 2024. He started four of the final five games of the regular season and finished with 18 tackles and two pass deflections.

While USC does need to add some veterans at cornerback, it’s an interesting position because that spot has two second-year players in Marcelles Williams and Braylan Conley who are likely capable of pushing for playing time in 2025. Johnson has three years of eligibility remaining (plus a potential redshirt season) and would have added another body to the room in the same class as those two. The Trojans are also set to add at least two more corners from the 2025 recruiting class and perhaps more depending on position versatility.

USC will likely stay busy in the transfer portal when it comes to the defensive backfield and there are a few intriguing targets out there that would be veteran experience to the cornerback room.

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Garry Paskwietz (1966-2019)

Garry Paskwietz was a pioneer in bringing team-specific sports coverage to the internet. He founded WeAreSC in 1998 and was an Emmy winner for his work with Fox Sports West. Always generous with his time, knowledge, and compassion, he touched the lives of countless USC and high school football fans.

Garry Paskwietz