4-Star Recruit Gavin Williams Announces Commit Decision

With the USC Trojans preparing for the summer, there is an opportunity to add more top talent to their 2027 recruiting class.

Nov 7, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley watches game action against the Northwestern Wildcats during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

As the USC Trojans head into the summer, coach Lincoln Riley, and the coaching staff have an opportunity to build on what is already a strong 2027 recruiting class.

Riley got good news on Sunday, May 17 when four-star safety Gavin Williams announced his commitment to the Trojans over Notre Dame, UCLA, and Washington.

Dec 30, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley watches in the first half against the TCU Horned Frogs during the Alamo Bowl at Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Four-Star Safety Gavin Williams

In Williams' junior campaign, he recorded 63 tackles, five tackles for loss, eight pass breakups, two interceptions, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. Williams has the ability to make an impact on the game all across the field and is not limited to playing the run game or being in coverage; he has the ability to do both.

Nov 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley (left) poses with Spirit of Troy marching band director James Vogel (center) and mascot Tommy Trojan after the game against the UCLA Bruins at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Standing at 6-0 and 185 pounds, Williams brings a player who could be very versatile for the Trojans and has the opportunity to fill a variety of positions in the secondary. With Williams' frame, he has the ability to play both safety positions and could develop into a slot corner with the talent he has put on tape.

As Williams nears making his decision, the talent he has put on display and the versatility he could bring are something that could be very valuable for USC and a major reason why the Trojans are set on landing the safety prospect.

USC’s Competition

In addition to USC competing for the Services of Williams, other schools that he was considering include Notre Dame, UCLA, and Washington.

Most recruits often announce their decision a few months before beginning their college career, but Williams, like many others, has decided to announce his commitment early, which changes the timeline with official visits.

Dec 27, 2023; San Diego, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley reacts in the second half against the Louisville Cardinals during the Holiday Bowl at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

USC’s Recruiting Dominance In California

Without question, one of the most dominant teams in landing recruits in California is USC, as they have been able to recruit some of the top talent in California. One of the biggest examples includes tight end Mark Bowman, who played for Mater Dei and could become USC’s next great tight end. 

For Williams, the opportunity to play for a brand like USC is something that could help him develop into a great defender with the elite competition that the Trojans face in the Big Ten.

While there will be a season in between Williams first college season, USC has lost two very important safeties in Bishop Fitzgerald and Kamari Ramsey, who are critical components of the Trojans defense in 2025. 

If no one assured himself as a starting caliber safety, should Williams commit to USC, there is a great chance that he could end up starting and be a key piece of the Trojans defense for years to come.

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