USC Football: Malachi Nelson to Reportedly Land With Huge NCAAF Contender

Originally posted on USC Trojans on SI
By James Brizuela | Last updated Jan 4, 2024 1:18 PM ET

The USC Trojans were set to be in a precarious position after they lost Caleb Williams, who is presumably heading for the NFL Draft. His departure was tough enough, and then backup QB Malachi Nelson announced his entrance into the transfer portal.

Nelson initially committed to Oklahoma but flipped his commitment after Lincoln Riley took the HC job with USC. Nelson would follow Riley to play for him, but that would not come to pass, as Caleb Williams was the clear starter.

Nelson was considered the #1 recruit in 2023, after having a huge high school campaign that included 2,898 yards, 35 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. Despite the Trojans landing his services, he decided to leave after one year.

Sources: Quarterback Malachi Nelson, the former No. 1 ESPN overall recruit from 2023, will take an official visit to Boise State in the upcoming days. Nelson transferred out of USC after one season, and Boise will mark his first official visit. pic.twitter.com/oD8wWVqYca
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 4, 2024

Nelson will be meeting with Boise State, and the Broncos could do well to bring him on as their starter. It's a shame that Nelson was only featured in one game the past season, but that means he still has four seasons of eligibility left.

Boise State has a huge chance at landing him, as he is looking for a "blue-collar program" to prove himself in.

Boise is the favorite to land Nelson, who is looking for a blue-collar program to blend in and prove himself. Nelson’s attraction to Boise stems from the opportunity to grow with a strong program that includes 18 returning starters, four starting OL and star RB Ashton Jeanty.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 4, 2024

The Broncos also have 18 returning starters, which is a huge number. Most teams had to deal with players entering the NFL Draft or transfer portal.

Nelson will likely take over starting duties after one year at Boise State but could find himself the starter next season if he impresses in training camp.

This article first appeared on USC Trojans on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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