USC Trojans defensive lineman Jahkeem Stewart will miss the season opener against San Jose State on Saturday due to a foot injury. The sophomore, who earned freshman All-American honors last season, sustained the injury recently, adding to the Trojans' injury concerns after center Kilian O’Connor was lost for the season during training camp.
Coach Lincoln Riley indicated that Stewart's injury is not expected to be long-term. "What he’s dealing with right now is minor," Riley said Tuesday. "The plan is to probably hold him [out], and I think he’ll be able starting from that point forward. But it’s certainly not long term. A little precautionary right now."
Stewart could potentially return for USC's second game against Fresno State on Sept. 4. The Trojans, considered heavy favorites against their first three nonconference opponents, may opt to give Stewart an extended rest period. USC will play Louisiana on Sept. 12 before beginning Big Ten Conference play against Rutgers.
Last season, Stewart played through a stress fracture in his foot, an injury that eventually required surgery in December and caused him to miss the Trojans' bowl game. Riley stated that the team will monitor Stewart's current injury closely and adjust his recovery based on how his 6-foot-5, 295-pound frame responds to treatment. "Everybody is different in terms of their size, their biomechanics in terms of how they run," Riley commented. "So, yeah, I think some of these injuries are freak things that happen from time to time in this game, that’s part of it."
The Trojans' defensive line depth may be tested with Stewart's absence. However, Riley expressed confidence in the team's ability to manage the situation. "We’ve had some young guys emerge in that room, especially who are going to command some looks and some opportunities to play and go prove themselves on Saturdays here right away," Riley said. "And then you combine it with the experience we have in that room. We’ll have a good healthy rotation and be able to withstand any dings along the way."