USC QB Jayden Maiava Makes Career Decision After College Football Season

NFL scouts had him pegged as a late first- or early second-round option. He clearly felt there was more to prove. His growth from the first year to the second year in Riley's system was noticeable, and the expectation is that another offseason of reps only pushes that further.

Recently, Maiava made moves off the field, too. When he first got to USC in January 2024, he was aligned with NILX for representation, then shifted to Athletes First. Now there has been another change.

According to On3's Pete Nakos, Maiava has signed with QB Reps for NIL representation.

The Nashville-based agency confirmed the deal on its official website.

"USC starting quarterback and 2025 Big Ten passing leader Jayden Maiava has signed with sports marketing agency QB Reps," the firm announced. "The Nashville-based firm will direct marketing and brand management for the Palolo, Hawaii native who emerged as one of the nation's premier signal callers this season."

On3/Rivals puts his NIL value at $2.2 million.

Back on the field, Maiava's return also took some pressure off Riley after losing touted quarterback Husan Longstreet earlier in the offseason. Longstreet entered the transfer portal and is headed to play for the LSU Tigers.

The expectations coming into 2026 are quite serious. Heisman Trophy conversations have already started, and 2027 NFL Draft top-pick talk is out there, too.

But Maiava will have to earn all of it against a brutal schedule that includes the Oregon Ducks, Washington Huskies, Penn State Nittany Lions, Ohio State Buckeyes and Indiana Hoosiers.