USC Football: Way-too-early 2022 depth chart projection

Nov 27, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Gary Bryant Jr. (1) battles for a pass against BYU Cougars defensive back Kaleb Hayes (18) in the second half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

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TUCSON, ARIZONA – NOVEMBER 14: Linebacker Ralen Goforth #10 of the USC Trojans during the PAC-12 football game against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium on November 14, 2020 in Tucson, Arizona. The Trojans defeated the Wildcats 34-30. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Linebacker

Starting outside linebacker: Romello Height
Backup: Eli’Jah Winston

Inside linebackers: Shane Lee, Ralen Goforth
Backups: Raesjon Davis, Julien Simon

Another position that lacks depth and might need some more transfers. USC got some talented players through the portal at the position, but there is much to be done to have this as a good unit.

Auburn transfer Romello Height should be one starter at linebacker. A former four-star recruit, Height flashed his potential at times at Auburn, but never put it all together. USC is going to need him to do that this season.

The most intriguing name at the position is Alabama transfer Shane Lee. Lee started every game for the Crimson Tide in 2019 but has been injured since. If he is healthy and back to his 2019 form, Lee might be the best player on the defense.

Ralen Goforth has been starting the past couple of seasons at USC, but he has not been an impact player. However, USC is thin at the position and Goforth will play a major role in 2022.

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