After a paltry 4-8 season, USC’s new regime has turned their attention to the 2022 campaign with their top wide receiver, edge rusher, and various starting defenders moving on to the NFL Draft. Which Trojans prospects should you keep an eye on at USC’s 2022 Pro Day, and what can we expect from the top players participating?
When is the USC Pro Day in 2022?
- Date: Wednesday, March 23Â
- Time: TBD
Last year, scouts from all 32 NFL teams flew to Los Angeles, California, to watch six draft-eligible Trojans — plus three former players — participate at their pro day. USC’s 2022 Pro Day will take place on campus at Cromwell Field, most often used for track and field and recreational sporting events. The field itself was replaced with an all-weather turf in 2013.
Top USC NFL Draft prospects working out at Pro Day
Five Trojans were invited to the 2022 NFL Combine, but this draft class will likely be lighter than last year (five players selected). Nevertheless, who are the top prospects you should keep an eye on before and after USC’s Pro Day?
Drake London, WR
Due to a fractured right ankle, Drake London missed the final two months of the 2021 season. Additionally, the injury caused him to sit out of drills at the NFL Combine. London said he is operating at roughly 85% and doesn’t want to work out until he is at 100%. So, he will reportedly conduct a solo session for NFL scouts on April 5. London’s size is not a question, but proving his health and mobility will be paramount for his first-round projection.
Drake Jackson, EDGE
London isn’t the only Drake in town. Drake Jackson reportedly put on 15 pounds of muscle during the offseason, and that is presumably why he didn’t run the 40 or partake in agility drills a the Combine. Regardless, Jackson’s tape flashed elite-level bend around the edge, and he owns outstanding length (34 inches). If he can maintain his weight while showcasing above-average, Jackson’s draft stock should only rise at 20 years old (21 in April).
Keaontay Ingram, RB
Running a 4.53 at 221 pounds is nothing to sneeze at. Keaontay Ingram displayed his powerful rushing style in three years at Texas and one year at USC. He caught 89 receptions for 671 yards in his career, flashing some receiving utility. While Ingram doesn’t own any standout traits, his overall skill set should prove valuable in camp. He put up stellar numbers for his size at the Combine, so don’t expect too much improvement at USC’s Pro Day.
Chris Steele, CB
A highly sought-after recruit, Chris Steele didn’t live up to the hype at USC. However, his 8.68 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) at the Combine ranked 240 out of 1,806 corners dating back to 1987. Still, his lighter frame and average top-end speed may cause problems in the NFL. His short-area acceleration and burst are also questionable. Thus, recording good three-cone and shuttle times could quell some of those concerns at his pro day.
Other players to watch for at USC’s 2022 Pro Day
- Jalen McKenzie, OT
- Liam Jimmons, G
- Kana’i Mauga, LB
- Isaac Taylor-Stuart, CB
- Isaiah Pola-Mao, S
