USC's Braylan Shelby Addresses Decision to Re-Sign with Trojans

In a time where college football headlines are dominated by the transfer portal, Braylan Shelby is choosing continuity. The USC defensive end confirmed he will return for his senior season in 2026, becoming part of a growing group of Trojans who have elected to “re-sign” with the program.

For USC, the move represents more than roster retention, it’s a statement about stability in an era defined by transfer portal volatility and NIL-driven turnover. For Shelby, the decision wasn’t framed as a dramatic choice. It was settled long before paperwork or announcements entered the picture.

USC Trojans coach Lincoln Riley Trojans defensive end Braylan Shelby transfer portal Alamo Bowl Big Ten football — Sep 20, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans defensive end Braylan Shelby (10) reacts after sacking Michigan State Spartans quarterback Aidan Chiles (2) during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

“It wasn’t really a decision in the first place,” Shelby told reporters after Alamo Bowl practice. “I always knew I wanted to be here. I love the University of Southern California, athletics, academics, this is the greatest place in the world to be.”

That certainty matters. While many programs spend the offseason reacting to departures, USC has flipped the narrative by publicly spotlighting players who choose to stay. Shelby’s return aligns directly with that approach and reinforces the idea that buy-in still holds weight inside the Trojans’ locker room.

USC’s Re-Signing Model Takes Shape

As the world of collegiate sports moves away from simple amateurism and advances towards something akin to being semi-pro, the language has changed from less scholarship and more to contracts. With contracts comes commitment, but also transparency. Shelby views USC’s re-signing strategy as a reflection of where college football is heading, not a radical departure from tradition. With NIL now fully embedded in the sport, roster continuity has become both a competitive and cultural advantage.

“That’s kind of what college football is coming to,” Shelby said. “Some people love it, some people hate it. But I think USC is taking a step ahead and showing they’re ahead of the game.”

The Trojans have already seen several key contributors follow the same path, including quarterback Jayden Maiava, running back Waymond Jordan, and defensive end Jahkeem Stewart. Together, that group forms the early foundation of USC’s 2026 roster, a core built on retention rather than replacement. Shelby believes the model also provides clarity beyond the locker room.

“I think it helps fans know who’s returning,” he said. “It gives structure. And I think it’s going to play a bigger factor as NIL keeps growing.”

Other programs across the country have quickly joined in on the trend, following in the Trojans footsteps. Players like Maryland Terrapins freshman quarterback Malik Washington and South Carolina Gamecocks junior quarterback LaNorris Sellers were two of the first to announce their return in a similar manner at the conclusion of the regular season.

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A Veteran Edge With Production to Match

Shelby’s decision carries added weight because of what he brings back on the field. Now entering his fourth season with the Trojans, he has quietly developed into a reliable rotational edge defender with consistent production.

Across three seasons at USC, Shelby has totaled 71 tackles, 9.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and one interception, appearing in every game since his arrival in Los Angeles. His growth has mirrored his expanded role, progressing from a situational rush end into a Big Ten-sized defensive end capable of holding the edge and affecting the quarterback. A development USC values as it continues to reshape its defensive identity. His return ensures the Trojans won’t be starting from scratch along the edge next fall.

With another full offseason ahead, Shelby’s focus has shifted from decisions to expectations. He sees a roster gaining continuity, younger players benefiting from extended bowl practices, and a program leaning into a clearer identity. Paired with a hungry No.1 ranked 2026 recruiting class bringing in 35 recruits, 17 on the defensive side, all signs point to the Trojans building off of a promising 2025 season.