USC Football: Brenden Rice Selected by AFC South Powerhouse in Fresh Mock Draft

Matt Levine | Apr 8, 2024

Much of the talk within the NFL Draft when it comes to the USC Trojans has been about quarterback Caleb Williams. He is the star of the show and is expected to go first overall to the Chicago Bears. However, the Trojans do have some other very talented prospects heading to the league.

This includes wide receiver Brenden Rice, son of NFL legend Jerry Rice. Rice played very well for the Trojans over his four seasons but really blossomed this past year. While he isn't projected to be a first-round draft choice, Rice can still provide whichever team that drafts him with a determined pass-catcher.

In his latest mock draft on NFL.com, draft expert Chad Reuter projected Rice to be taken in the fourth round by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Jacksonville would be taking him with pick No. 116 in this scenario.

If the Jaguars were to grab Rice, it could be a great landing spot for the Trojans wide receiver. Jacksonville has a star quarterback in Trevor Lawrence, who needs another big-time pass-catcher after Calvin Ridley left in free agency.

Last season with the Trojans, Rice put up solid numbers. He caught 45 catches for 791 yards and 12 touchdowns. He could thrive in the Jaguars' pass-happy system, giving him a chance to become a very reliable target in the NFL.

Jacksonville is a team that isn't too far off from truly competing either, so Rice would be going to a contender. He could help them try to get over the hump in the AFC, making this a mutually beneficial partnership if drafted by the team.