USC Faces Major Oregon Challenge for Elite California Tight End Rahzario Edwards

Four-star tight end recruit Rahzario Edwards is at the center of a heated West Coast recruiting battle. The standout from Sacramento’s Grant High School has named USC and Oregon among his top four schools. This sets the stage for a direct clash between the two Big Ten rivals.

According to Rivals, Alabama and Ole Miss are also heavily involved. The core decision for Edwards is choosing between staying close to home or venturing out for a new experience.

USC’s In-State Strategy and Positional Need

USC’s pitch to Edwards is built on proximity and program prestige. As the premier football school in California, the Trojans offer a familiar path. Edwards told Rivals that “SC is the top school in California,” keeping them firmly on his mind.

The Trojans are aggressively targeting elite in-state talent. This strategy just produced the No. 1 recruiting class for the 2026 cycle. General manager Chad Bowden and coach Lincoln Riley are building for the Big Ten.

Tight end is a specific position of emphasis in that build. USC recently signed five-star tight end Mark Bowman. With starter Lake McRee departing for the NFL, immediate opportunity exists.

Edwards’ profile fits this need perfectly. The 6-foot-6 athlete had a breakout sophomore year with 14 touchdowns. He followed that with over 600 receiving yards as a junior, showing consistent big-play ability.

Oregon’s Relentless Pursuit Creates a Toss-Up

While USC has geographic pull, Oregon’s consistent effort is a major factor. The Ducks are making a strong impression and communicating with Edwards daily. He notes that Oregon is a team that “want me to stay on the West Coast.”

This recruitment mirrors recent high-profile battles between the two schools. Oregon was a finalist for five-star receiver Chris Henry Jr., who chose Ohio State. The Ducks also defeated USC last season, impacting the playoff race.

Edwards’ multi-sport background as a basketball player adds to his appeal. He draws comparisons to athletic NFL tight ends. His recruitment is now trending toward a classic West Coast showdown.

The outcome will signal which program holds more sway in California. For USC, losing a top in-state target to a conference rival would be a significant setback.

The battle for Rahzario Edwards is more than a single recruitment. It is a proxy war between USC and Oregon with implications for future Big Ten supremacy.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who are Rahzario Edwards’ top schools?

Edwards has identified Alabama, Oregon, Ole Miss, and USC as the four programs making the biggest impact in his recruitment, according to Rivals.

What makes Edwards a top tight end prospect?

He is a 6-foot-6, two-sport athlete with a proven receiving record. He posted 921 yards and 14 touchdowns as a sophomore, showcasing elite playmaking ability.

Why does USC need a tight end?

Starter Lake McRee is heading to the NFL Draft. While they signed five-star Mark Bowman, adding a talent like Edwards provides depth and continues their offensive emphasis on the position.

How is Oregon challenging USC in this recruitment?

The Ducks are in constant contact with Edwards. Their persistent outreach and desire to keep him on the West Coast make them a formidable opponent to USC’s home-state advantage.

When will Rahzario Edwards make his decision?

A public decision timeline has not been announced. Recruits of his caliber often decide during or after their senior season official visits.

What is the bigger impact of this recruiting battle?

It tests USC’s ability to lock down elite California talent against a direct conference competitor. The result will influence perceptions of both programs’ recruiting strength in the region.