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Defensive end Braylan Shelby returning to USC for senior season in 2026

Erik-McKinneyby: Erik McKinney12/14/25ErikTMcKinney

The USC Trojans defensive front is returning a veteran presence in 2026 as defensive end Braylan Shelby will be back for his senior season, the program announced today.

The 6-foot-5, 265-pound defensive end took over as a starter during the middle part of the season, getting the first defensive snap in five games against Michigan, Notre Dame, Nebraska, Northwestern and Iowa. He finished the year with 25 tackles, leading the Trojans with 4.5 sacks and tying for third on the team with 7 tackles for loss. While 3.5 of those sacks came within the first four games of the year (Against Missouri State and Michigan State), Shelby did finish the season with a sack against UCLA.

With fellow defensive end Anthony Lucas out of eligibility, Shelby will be seen as a leader on the defensive line next season and a very important player to get going if the Trojans are going to realize the improved play from the defensive front the USC coaches talked about needing to get all season. USC will need to improve against the run and develop a more consistent and imposing pass rush. The Trojans clearly see Shelby as being a key piece of that in 2026 as USC is set to take on a very difficult conference schedule.

USC has the potential to return a number of defensive linemen from the 2025 roster. Lucas and defensive tackles Keeshawn Silver and Kobe Pepe are the only three who have exhausted their college eligibility. Jahkeem Stewart, Kameryn Crawford, Jide Abasiri, Devan Thompkins and Floyd Boucard are all significant 2025 contributors who should be back for the Trojans in 2026 alongside Shelby.

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Garry Paskwietz (1966-2019)

Garry Paskwietz was a pioneer in bringing team-specific sports coverage to the internet. He founded WeAreSC in 1998 and was an Emmy winner for his work with Fox Sports West. Always generous with his time, knowledge, and compassion, he touched the lives of countless USC and high school football fans.

Garry Paskwietz