USC's RJ Sermons: Iowa Transfer Key to Cornerback Competition
By John Damon | Just The News Iowa
USC cornerback RJ Sermons, a former track star and five-star recruit, is turning heads in fall camp as he pushes for playing time in a crowded defensive backfield. The redshirt freshman's development could directly impact the role of Iowa State transfer Jontez Williams, who is battling back from injury to lead the Trojans' secondary.
Sermons, who ran a 10.30 100m and 20.88 200m as a California high school junior, reclassified to join USC in 2025. After a redshirt season, he is now drawing praise from teammates and coaches for his growth.
What Makes RJ Sermons Stand Out
Redshirt sophomore cornerback Chasen Johnson highlighted Sermons' athleticism as his defining trait. R.J. is definitely taking that next step, Johnson said. He real athletic. We always tells him how athletic he is, and T-Reed pushes him to take that next step, so that's what he's doing.
Cornerbacks coach Trovon Reed has noted changes in Sermons' mindset, body, and daily approach since he arrived. At 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds, Sermons combines elite speed with the size to match up against physical receivers.
Iowa Transfer Jontez Williams Leads the Room
Williams, a 2024 second-team All-Big 12 selection at Iowa State, headlines USC's cornerback group after entering the transfer portal as the No. 1 rated corner. He suffered a season-ending knee injury last September but was fully cleared before fall camp.
Reed made Williams his top portal target, and the Iowa native chose USC as his only visit. His recovery and performance will be critical for a Trojans defense that struggled at times last season.
Open Competition in Fall Camp
Reed has declared an open competition for starting spots. Johnson, who followed Reed from UCF, and Marcelles Williams, who started 11 games last season, are also in the mix. Freshman Elbert Rock Hill, rated the No. 1 cornerback in the 2026 class by ESPN, adds depth.
Marcelles Williams emphasized the value of experience. Obviously, my first year, I didn't really play too much. My second year, I actually got to experience them big time moments, all the drives, fourth quarters, in-game situations, he said. Getting that experience under my belt, getting used to the speed of the game, and certain things to look for in those big games.
What This Means for Iowa Fans
For Iowa fans, Williams' success at USC reflects well on the state's football program. His transfer from Iowa State to a national contender like USC underscores the talent developed in the Big 12 and Midwest. The competition at USC also highlights the growing trend of players moving between conferences, a dynamic that affects recruiting and roster building across the country.
As fall camp continues, Sermons' rapid development could push Williams and others to elevate their game. The Trojans open the season in late August, and the cornerback battle will be one to watch.