After a breakout season for USC, quarterback Jayden Maiava is one of the most highly rated returning prospects at his position in college football. In one of the most talented quarterback classes in recent memory, Maiava is also one of the favorites to win the 2026 Heisman Trophy in a list headlined by Texas Longhorns star Arch Manning.
Maiava will have the advantage of all five of his starting offensive linemen from last season returning to protect him next season, which accounts for the high expectations around the program.
Jayden Maiava Outlines Standards for USC Trojans in 2026
While speaking to reporters after the Trojans’ eighth spring practice session on Tuesday, March 24, Maiava revealed that the team was working to improve the Trojans’ offensive standards next season.
“Starting fast, executing plays and having that next play mentality,” Maiava said. “Obviously, we’re gonna mess up, there are gonna be mistakes, comes with the game, but having that next play mentality, being able to flesh it all out and play ball at the end of the day. Checking your intent, checking your energy level.
“Keeping yourself accountable before keeping others accountable. Just coming on the field with the right mindset because you got the players who’ve been here before us, they paved the way for what this program could be.”
The influential Maiava won the USC starting job after beginning his first season at USC as a transfer from UNLV. Originally a backup to Miller Moss, Maiava dethroned him midway through the year.
In his first full season under center for the Trojans, Maiava tallied 3,711 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He added 157 rushing yards and six scores to firmly establish himself as one of the best quarterbacks in both the Big Ten and the country.
In a talented field, Maiava was ranked No. 3 among Big Ten quarterbacks by CBS Sports analyst Tom Fornelli, just behind Ohio State Buckeyes standout Julian Sayin and Oregon Ducks returner Dante Moore.
“I was skeptical of USC’s decision to stay out of the portal last offseason and roll with Maiava, but I’m skeptical no longer,” Fornelli wrote. “Maiava has a tendency to put the ball in danger and make throws he shouldn’t, but that comes with inexperience, and another year as a starter could see him take his game to an entirely new level.”
After a stellar season for USC, the talented quarterback earned a PFSN College QB Impact score of 93.3, good for No. 3 overall in college football.
