USC Trojans: Top Defensive Tackle Recruit Narrows Search To 3 Programs

Elijah Griffin, a five-star defensive tackle from Savannah, Georgia, is one of the most coveted prospects in the 2025 class. After narrowing his recruitment to three programs—Georgia Bulldogs, Miami Hurricanes, and USC Trojans —Griffin has been closely watched by college football programs across the country.

The 6-foot-4, 280-pound standout has a rare combination of size, speed, and power that makes him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines. His impressive high school career, highlighted by 17.5 sacks, 31 tackles for loss, and a state championship appearance last season, has solidified his status as one of the top defenders in the nation.

Eric Henderson Keeping USC Trojans In The Mix For Elijah Griffin

He has been named the number one DT recruit in the nation by three of the four ranking organizations and is the 6th among all recruits by On3’s Industry Rankings .

Griffin has a strong connection to Georgia, having been offered by the Bulldogs in eighth grade and taking multiple official visits to Athens. Miami and USC have also made significant impressions on him, and he plans to take official visits to both schools during the season.

While Georgia may have the edge due to proximity and a long-standing relationship, Griffin’s decision is far from finalized. Miami and USC’s recent victories could sway him, and his commitment is not expected until at least mid-October, with the potential to extend into the early signing period.

Griffin singled out new Trojans defensive line coach Eric Henderson as his reason for keeping SC in the mix,

“Coach Henny is the main reason I am looking at USC,” Griffin said. “He coached Aaron Donald. He helped Aaron make plays, get in position to make plays and things like that. I try to model my game after Aaron Donald, so coach Henny being a part of what he has done in the NFL is huge.

“Then he is just a passionate and genuine guy. He is not just fun and games, but coach Henny takes his job seriously. He is why USC is on my list.”

So far as a senior, he has logged four sacks and eight tackles for loss in just three games.

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