USC holds the top spot in the 2026 recruiting cycle rankings so far, but the Trojans aren’t resting on their laurels. They’re already making moves for 2027, including pursuing five-star EDGE rusher Zyron Forstall.
The Louisiana native says one particular USC coach stands out above all others in his recruitment, and that relationship could determine where he ultimately signs.
2027 EDGE Zyron Forstall Praises Trojans Staffer Eric Henderson During USC Recruitment
The recruitment process for the class of 2027 is just beginning, but Jesuit HS (LA) EDGE Zyron Forstall has already emerged as one of the most coveted prospects in the nation.
According to 247Sports’ composite rankings, Forstall ranks as the No. 2 EDGE rusher and No. 3 overall player in the 2027 cycle. The young pass rusher has collected numerous offers from Power Four programs across the country.
Among the many schools pursuing the New Orleans native, the USC Trojans appear to have gained significant momentum. Forstall returned to campus in Southern California this summer for his second visit, and his connection with one coach in particular has made a lasting impression.
During a recent interview, Forstall singled out USC’s co-defensive coordinator Eric Henderson as the key figure in his growing interest in the Trojans. The respect between player and coach was evident in Forstall’s comments.
“Out of all the coaches, Coach Henny has a little asterisk next to him,” Forstall said. “He coached the best at the game, he knows the most, he has the most experience in the game. I feel like he’d be the best coach to develop me.”
Henderson brings impressive credentials to USC. Before joining the Trojans, he served as the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive line coach and run game coordinator, where he helped the team capture Super Bowl LVI in February 2022. His track record of developing NFL talent, particularly with future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald, has resonated with elite recruits like Forstall.
The five-star prospect came to USC with high expectations based on Henderson’s reputation, and those expectations were met during his campus visit.
“I expected high-level coaching from Coach Henny, knowing who he is, and that’s exactly what I got,” Forstall said.
While Forstall remains early in his recruitment process and likely won’t make a decision until next summer, Henderson’s influence has clearly made USC a serious contender. The connection between the veteran coach and the elite prospect represents exactly what the Trojans hoped for when they brought Henderson aboard.
USC’s recruiting momentum has been building steadily in recent months, with the program dominating the 2026 rankings. If they can maintain this success into the 2027 cycle with prospects like Forstall, the Trojans could establish themselves as a consistent national power for years to come.
Since arriving at USC in November 2021, Lincoln Riley has faced criticism, but his ability to assemble an elite coaching staff continues to pay dividends. Henderson exemplifies the type of hire that can transform a program, bringing both on-field expertise and recruiting prowess.
As the Trojans build toward the future, coaches like Henderson, who can connect with and develop elite talent, will be crucial to achieving Riley’s vision of returning USC to national prominence.
