In a significant shift on the college football recruiting landscape, five-star linebacker Xavier Griffin has decommitted from the USC Trojans and announced his commitment to the Texas A\&M Aggies. This move marks a pivotal addition to Texas A\&M’s 2026 recruiting class and a notable loss for USC.
Griffin, a standout from Gainesville High School in Georgia, is ranked as the No. 2 linebacker and No. 24 overall prospect in the 2026 class, according to the On3 Industry Rankings . His initial commitment to USC in July 2024 was seen as a major win for the Trojans, but his recruitment remained open as he continued to explore other programs.([SI][1])
Throughout the past year, Griffin took visits to several top programs, including Georgia, Tennessee, Florida State, and Texas . Despite expressing strong interest in USC, he emphasized the importance of evaluating all options to make the best decision for his future.([SI][2])
Texas A\&M’s persistent recruitment efforts, led by head coach Mike Elko and his staff, played a crucial role in Griffin’s decision to flip his commitment. The Aggies’ emphasis on defensive development and their competitive presence in the SEC appealed to Griffin’s aspirations of playing at the highest level.
Griffin’s commitment to Texas A\&M not only strengthens their defensive lineup but also signals the program’s growing influence in attracting top-tier talent from across the country. His versatility, athleticism, and leadership qualities are expected to make an immediate impact on the Aggies’ defense upon his arrival.
For USC, Griffin’s decommitment is a setback in their efforts to build a formidable 2026 class. The Trojans will need to reassess their recruiting strategy to fill the void left by Griffin’s departure.
As the 2026 recruiting cycle progresses, Griffin’s decision underscores the dynamic nature of college football recruiting, where commitments can shift as prospects seek the best fit for their athletic and academic goals. Texas A\&M’s acquisition of Griffin positions them as a formidable contender in the upcoming seasons, with fans eagerly anticipating his contributions on the field.