USC's top returning wide receiver, Tanook Hines, has an uncertain status for the Trojans' season opener against San Jose State, according to coach Lincoln Riley.
Hines, who underwent an unspecified offseason medical procedure, has been increasing his practice activity over the last 10 to 14 days. Riley stated Thursday that the decision on whether Hines plays will be made before the game. "He's close, there's no question," Riley said. "If he plays this game, that's great, and if he doesn't, he's certainly not far away."
Riley noted that the team's long season ahead could factor into the decision. Hines, a true freshman last season, recorded 34 catches for 561 yards and two touchdowns. He was listed on the depth chart with an "OR" designation alongside Corey Simms as a possible starter.
The Trojans' receiving corps also features freshmen Trent Mosley and Kayden Dixon-Wyatt as starters. USC is anticipating significant snaps from numerous freshmen, with potentially five true freshmen starting and 13 across the two-deep roster. Other freshmen listed as starters include tight end Mark Bowman and defensive end Luke Wafle. Cornerback Elbert "Rock" Hill IV shares an "OR" designation with redshirt sophomore Chasen Johnson.
Riley described the freshmen expected to contribute immediately as possessing "competitive maturity combined with a good sense of humility," noting their willingness to earn their opportunities.
In other roster updates, true freshman Madden Riordan is listed as a backup at both safety positions due to the unavailability of Kendarius Reddick and Marquis Gallegos for unspecified reasons. Alex Graham and Kennedy Urlacher, listed at nickelback, may also see action in the secondary, providing flexibility. The team will be without center Kilian O'Connor for the season due to injury. Defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart is also sidelined for at least the season opener because of an injury. Tobias Raymond is set to make his first career start at center, with Alex VanSumeren and Jide Abasiri listed as the starting defensive tackles.