Prized USC Commit Receives Surprise Recruiting Update

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lorenzo J. Reyna | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 4:16 PM ET

One USC Trojans 2026 commit woke up to stunning recruiting news. In the process, USC adds a new five-star for this cycle.

Except Luke Wafle goes from four-stars to five.

The Hun School of New Jersey edge rusher prospect earned the coveted fifth star by On3/Rivals Monday morning. The national recruiting outlet released an updated list of rankings for its top 300 list. Which now features Wafle as a five-star.

On3/Rivals also moved him up in the overall and EDGE rankings. Wafle landed at No. 8 for overall prospects and No. 4 for his position group. He remains the top overall talent in New Jersey. The outlet explained why the change in recruiting ranking and stars.

"Before even seeing Wafle take the field, it’s easy to understand how he’s able to dominate and disrupt a game on the defensive side of the ball. The top-ranked recruit in New Jersey quickly saw his recruitment take off in the fall, and he took full advantage, visiting more than 10 programs from last season through this summer," On3/Rivals explained.

National analyst Charles Power added future context into Wafle's game and how he rocketed up the rankings.

"Wafle pairs ready-made size at over 6-foot-5, around 245 pounds, with excellent on-field play. Wafle is very well-rounded as a pass-rusher. He wins with athleticism and also has excellent play-strength," Power explained. "You see him win with speed to power, blow by offensive linemen on the edge and he is a highly-physical finisher in the backfield, has some emphatic finishes and the ability to corral ball-carriers."

Wafle additionally brings a basketball background and is a shot put star in track and field. He's viewed as a "ready-made" talent for 2026.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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