Signing day 2016 is finally here, and four-star safety, CJ Pollard, joins the Trojans' solid recruiting class.
At 6-foot-2 and 190 pounds, Pollard comes from Gardena, California where he attended Junipero Serra High School, a well-known West Coast recruiting powerhouse. USC had five Serra players on its 2015 roster including sophomore All-American cornerback, Adoree' Jackson. Pollard became USC's 15th commit for the 2016 class, but Pollard's decision may not come as a shock. Both Pollard's parents attended USC, and his father, Marvin Pollard, played cornerback for the Trojans from 1988 to 1991. While Pollard's family history certainly influenced his own decision to become a Trojan, he is looking to make his own mark in Trojan football.
When asked what his long-term goals are, Pollard certainly does not lack ambition. "My goal is to be an All-American and National Champion hopefully if everything lines up together perfectly."
After all, Pollard is ranked as the nation's No. 10 safety according to 247Sports' composite ratings. The commit is known for his speed which allows him to serve as a versatile and dynamic defensive back for the Trojans.
"I'm looking to see where I fit in and where I can help the team in any way on defense, whether that be special teams, nickel, safety, or corner. Really wherever they put me, my goal is to be a team player and contributor."
Pollard's versatility has led him to become a highly sought after recruit. Just after his sophomore season in high school, he picked up his first scholarship offer from Utah. Over the rest of his high school career, Pollard received offers from 14 schools, including UCLA, Oregon, Berkeley, Notre Dame and Michigan. Despite his host of offers, Pollard announced on Twitter last July that he had, 'Officially Committed to the University of Southern California #FightOn #Blessed.' Pollard enrolled at USC this spring semester as a midyear graduate. While he has only been on campus for 3 weeks, Pollard says he is already feeling welcomed by the Trojan family and thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the program.
Annenberg Media