USC starting quarterback Jayden Maiava is returning for the 2026 season

"Jayden Maiava made it official Tuesday as the school announced that he had re-signed with the program for the upcoming season, his third with the Trojans. Maiava led USC to a 9-3 record in his first full season as starter after taking over the job during the final month of the 2023 season. He threw for 3,431 yards, 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions."

"That strong performance led to questions of whether Maiava might declare for the NFL draft. Some prognosticators viewed Maiava as one of the better potential quarterback prospects in a draft especially thin on passers. Instead, Maiava will run it back at USC, where the Trojans are set to return most of their dynamic 2025 offense in 2026 - the exception being their top two wideouts Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane, who both declared for the draft."

"USC's starting quarterback is returning for another season in 2026. USC announced earlier this week that it had re-signed No. 1 running back Waymond Jordan and receivers Tanook Hines and Zacharyus Williams for the 2026 season. Maiava's return now turns the attention to five-star backup Husan Longstreet, who will have a decision to make about his future at USC. It's unclear if Longstreet would be willing to wait another season behind Maiava."

Jayden Maiava re-signed with USC for the 2026 season, marking his third year with the Trojans. He led USC to a 9-3 record in his first full season as starter after taking over late in 2023, throwing for 3,431 yards, 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions while adding six rushing scores. Some evaluators considered him a notable NFL draft prospect in a class thin on quarterbacks, but he opted to return. USC will retain most of its dynamic 2025 offense though top receivers Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane declared for the draft. The program re-signed running back Waymond Jordan and receivers Tanook Hines and Zacharyus Williams. Backup five-star Husan Longstreet faces a decision about whether to remain behind Maiava or pursue other opportunities.

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