Quarterback Jayden Maiava Reveals How He Plans to Take USC Football to the Next Level During the 2026 Season

Instead of declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft, quarterback Jayden Maiava decided to return for another season at USC. The senior quarterback has one season left with the Trojans to increase his draft stock and lead USC to the College Football Playoffs. Maiava said his versatility and chemistry with the wide receivers will be crucial for his success this season.

"I think just being able to be a product of any environment, Maiava said to reporters at Big Ten Media Days. "I can't be a product of just one environment. I got to be a product of all environments.

So I think being able to adapt to the environment and just get to know the receivers at a deeper level so we can play at a high level and play fast. USC has produced several superstar quarterbacks who have gone on to shine in the NFL. Maiava told reporters he has had the opportunity to meet former Trojans quarterbacks like Caleb Williams, Sam Darnold and Matt Leinart.

"The cool thing about USC is a lot of different quarterbacks; they come back and visit quite often, Maiava said. "I've been blessed to just cross paths with them and share a conversation with them. That's really cool for me. Just the whole experience of being the quarterback at USC, it's tough to beat.