USC Trojans and head coach Lincoln Riley now have the chance to prove themselves to elite playmaker in 2026 class
Nothing has come easy for the USC Trojans since Lincoln Riley has been in town. In fact, it's been a bit of a bumpy ride. However, things are somewhat starting to pick up. The vibes are good, the energy is good, and the recruiting is damn good right now. The Trojans have been on a […]
Nothing has come easy for the USC Trojans since Lincoln Riley has been in town. In fact, it's been a bit of a bumpy ride. However, things are somewhat starting to pick up. The vibes are good, the energy is good, and the recruiting is damn good right now.
The Trojans have been on a hot streak lately with their recruiting. They currently sit at No. 2 in the 2026 class, and have claimed the No. 1 spot a few times after some battles with the Oregon Ducks. And it could only get even better after they have locked in an official visit with one of the best wide receivers in the 2026 class.
Trojans schedule official visit with 2026 WR Messiah Hampton
Messiah Hampton is a top high school wide receiver from James Monroe High School in Rochester, New York, in the Class of 2026. In his junior year of 2024, he caught 56 passes for 869 yards and eight touchdowns, totaling 1,900 all-purpose yards and 21 scores. At 6’1”, 180 pounds, he’s fast, runs crisp routes, and has dependable hands, making him tough to stop. He also runs track, which adds to his speed on the football field.
Hampton has been gaining notice since his freshman year, helping Monroe reach the state semifinals in 2023. He’s been named All-Greater Rochester twice and first-team All-State as a sophomore and junior. His performances at 7-on-7 tournaments and camps like Nike and Under Armour have helped him as well.
He's ranked No. 120 nationally and No. 1 in New York by On3, plus No. 13 among wide receivers. He’s got over 15 offers from schools like Ohio State, Penn State, Miami, Oregon, and Syracuse. In August 2024, he cut his list to 10, including Michigan, Rutgers, and Pittsburgh, and has visited Rutgers and Syracuse recently. Coaches think he could play slot receiver or be a versatile offensive player in college. Heading into his senior year, Hampton’s skills and hustle keep him on the radar as a rising star.
But, now he seems to be garnering interest in schools like USC. And, having scheduled a visit to USC, it's their chance to prove why he should go there. Lincoln Riley and company never disappoint on visits, so it's now their time to shine.
Elite 2026 recruit is now giving the USC Trojans the perfect chance to prove themselves
That would be the perfect addition.
