The USC Trojans are attracting big-time recruits for the 2026 cycle. They own the top-ranked recruiting class through March by landing five and four-star talent. And now the son of a four-time Pro Bowler from the 2027 class has locked in a future visit.
Four-star prospect Julian Cromartie confirmed on X that he's visiting USC on April 3 . He's one of the sons of past Pro Bowl cornerback and Florida State star Antonio Cromartie.
While the father became known as a towering ball-hawk on defense during his 11-year NFL career, the son is one of the nation's top wide receiver prospects. Cromartie stars for Mater Dei Catholic High in the San Diego region.
He averaged 19.7 yards per catch and scored six touchdowns last season per MaxPreps -- which was during his sophomore season on varsity. Cromartie is slightly taller than his 6-foot-2 dad, but doubles between wide receiver and cornerback.
The 6-foot-3 Cromartie is currently unranked by all the national outlets, since he's a '27 prospect and underclassman. But his recruitment is already picking up. He's landed early offers from Sacramento State, San Diego State, New Mexico State and UNLV.
USC, though, could emerge as his first power conference offer if the April visit goes great. The Trojans have already beefed up their NFL representation ahead of the 2025 season -- which could attract the Cromartie family.
Head coach Lincoln Riley has welcomed D'Anton Lynn back as his defensive coordinator. Lynn shares a Chargers connection with Antonio Cromartie -- as the DC's dad is former Bolts head coach Anthony Lynn.
But there's more beyond Lynn on the NFL representation side. The Trojans have Super Bowl winning defensive line coach Eric Henderson on the staff. "Hendo" won Super Bowl LVI with the Los Angeles Rams. USC then hired Rob Ryan from the league to work with the Trojan linebackers in 2025. Ryan brings two rings from the New England Patriots in tow.
Cromartie also would become USC's first '27 verbal commit if he immediately commits to the Trojans. USC has already distributed offers to talent representing that next recruiting cycle.
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