USC's starting quarterback will return for another season in 2026.
Jayden Maiava made it official Tuesday when the school announced he had re-signed with the program for the upcoming season, his third with the Trojans.
Maiava led USC to a 9-3 record in his first full season as a starter after taking over the job in the final month of the 2023 season. He threw for 3,431 yards, 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He also added six points on the ground.
That strong showing has led to questions about whether Maiava could declare for the NFL Draft. Some prognosticators considered Maiava to be one of the top potential guard prospects in a draft that is particularly short on passers.
Instead, Maiava will take the game back to USC, where the Trojans are set to return most of their dynamic 2025 offense in 2026 – minus top two players Makai Lemon and Ja'Coby Lane, who both declared for the draft. Earlier this week, USC announced it had re-signed No. 1 running back Waymond Jordan and wide receivers Tanuka Hines and Zacharius Williams through the 2026 season.
Return of Maiava now turns attention to five-star reserve Husan Longstreetwho will have to make a decision about his future at the University of Southern California. It's unclear whether Longstreet is willing to wait another season after Maiava.
