Prophet Brown Injury Update: Lincoln Riley Shares Latest Status on USC Cornerback

USC head coach Lincoln Riley has provided a new Prophet Brown injury update as the Trojans prepare for Week 5 of the 2025 season. Brown, who has not played this year after suffering a non-contact injury in August, remains sidelined with no immediate return date.

The Trojans are 4-0 to start the season, including two Big Ten victories, but have done so without one of their most experienced defensive backs. Riley addressed Brown’s status this week, saying the team will not rush him back.

Lincoln Riley Gives Careful Timeline on Prophet Brown’s Return

“Getting better,” Riley told reporters when asked about Brown’s recovery. “His return is not in the next several weeks, but it’s progressing. It’s frustrating for the kid, but he’s a great kid. He’s stayed in great spirits. It’s one of those things we definitely can’t rush. Going to err on the side of making sure he’s fully ready to go.”

Brown suffered his injury during a non-contact drill in August. USC has not publicly disclosed the exact nature of the injury, calling it a “unique situation.” Initial optimism suggested Brown might return earlier in the year, but the timeline remains uncertain. Riley added that a potential medical redshirt is part of ongoing discussions if his availability comes late in the season.

“It’s possible,” Riley said about the redshirt option. “We’re discussing it from a strategy standpoint if he’s available at the end of the year. The NCAA rules can make this tricky, so we’ll see how it plays out. The priority is to get him healthy first.”

Brown joined USC as a four-star recruit in the Class of 2021, originally ranked as the No. 10 running back in his class before transitioning to defensive back. Over 39 career games, he has recorded 31 total tackles and two passes defended. His experience and versatility have been valuable to the Trojans’ secondary.

Impact on USC’s Defense and Season Outlook

USC’s passing defense has struggled early, ranking 89th nationally by allowing 231 yards per game through the air. The team sits 53rd in scoring defense, giving up 20.3 points per game. Losing an experienced player like Brown has forced younger defensive backs into bigger roles.

The Trojans face a challenging stretch ahead, starting with a road game against Illinois this Saturday. After a bye, they will face Michigan, Notre Dame, and Nebraska — a run that could test their secondary depth even more. Getting Brown back later in the year could provide a significant boost, but the staff wants him fully recovered before returning.

The latest Prophet Brown injury update shows USC is taking a cautious approach. While a late-season return remains possible, Lincoln Riley’s priority is long-term health and preserving Brown’s eligibility if necessary.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Prophet Brown injury update?

Lincoln Riley said Brown is improving but will not return in the next several weeks. The team is being cautious with his recovery.

Q2: Will Prophet Brown play in 2025?

It’s uncertain. A late-season return is possible, but USC is considering a medical redshirt if he remains out most of the year.

Q3: What kind of injury does Prophet Brown have?

USC has not disclosed the exact injury. Riley described it as a “unique situation” from a non-contact incident in August.

Q4: How is USC’s defense performing without Prophet Brown?

The Trojans rank 89th nationally in passing defense and 53rd in scoring defense, showing struggles in the secondary.

Q5: When could Prophet Brown return to the field?

There’s no set timeline. Riley said his return is not expected in the next several weeks, and recovery is progressing slowly.