Following the departure of USC Trojans defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn to the Penn State Nittany Lions, one of the most pressing challenges for the USC football program as it heads into a crucial 2026 season is identifying a new defensive coordinator. The Trojans’ season came to an end with a 30-27 overtime loss to the TCU Horned Frogs in the Alamo Bowl, marking the beginning of the search for a replacement for Lynn.

Finding a suitable replacement for Lynn will be essential for the USC defense as it prepares for the 2026 season. The performance of the defense will play a critical role in determining whether the Trojans can make it to the College Football Playoff.

Jahkeem Stewart Casts His Vote

With several names under consideration, a key player on USC’s defense has shared his opinion on who he believes should be the next defensive coordinator. Defensive end Jahkeem Stewart, who is expected to be one of the top returners for the Trojans after an impressive freshman season, thinks that co-defensive coordinator Eric Henderson should take over from Lynn.

Stewart took to social media to express why he believes Henderson should become the defensive coordinator for USC. Here’s what the Trojans’ defensive end had to say:

• “Eric has been here for a while and knows the system.”
• “He’s worked with us and understands our players.”

USC defensive lineman Floyd Boucard also expressed a similar sentiment on his own social media page.

In addition to serving as co-defensive coordinator this season, Henderson was also the Trojans’ run-game coordinator and defensive line coach. His experience coaching USC’s defense and the support of a key player on the team could position him as a strong candidate for the head defensive coordinator role. Henderson called plays for USC’s defense during the Alamo Bowl loss to the Horned Frogs.

Why Some USC Fans Might Not Agree With Stewart’s Stance

While Henderson has the backing of Stewart and Boucard, many USC fans may not share their view on who the next defensive coordinator should be. Some fans believe that the Trojans should look outside of Lincoln Riley’s coaching staff for the next defensive coordinator. One name frequently mentioned by fans is former Texas defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski.

Even under Lynn, the Trojans’ defense struggled despite showing growth in physicality on the defensive front over the past two seasons. These struggles were evident in the Alamo Bowl, where USC blew a 10-point fourth-quarter lead, ultimately losing in overtime. On TCU’s game-winning touchdown in overtime, the Trojans gave up a 3rd and 20 conversion and missed three total tackles as Horned Frogs running back Jeremy Payne sealed the victory.

Bringing in an outsider for the defensive coordinator position may be the solution the Trojans need to address their defensive issues that have cost them opportunities to make the College Football Playoff in recent years.

USC’s Defensive Performance Crucial For 2026 Season

In USC’s three regular-season road losses against Illinois, No. 11 Notre Dame, and No. 5 Oregon, the Trojans allowed 30 points or more. Unlike this season, which saw the Trojans remain undefeated at home, the 2026 season will feature a challenging home Big Ten schedule, including matchups against Ohio State, Oregon, and Washington.

One of the biggest hurdles the Trojans must overcome to reach their goal of making the College Football Playoff in its fifth season under Riley is winning on the road. In 2026, USC will face two tough road games against the Indiana Hoosiers and Penn State Nittany Lions. The performance of the defense will be crucial not only in those road matchups but also in their three home games at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

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