Freshman linebacker Desman Stephens II is quickly solidifying himself in hopes of becoming a key figure in the Trojan defense. A four-star recruit from Clarkston, Michigan, Stephens was far from a headliner in the recruiting cycle, but has quickly proven his value. His rapid development and contributions – particularly during USC’s recent game against Penn State – have earned him recognition.
Stephens’ background is unique, having made the shift from high school cornerback and wide receiver to linebacker at the college level. At 6-foot-3-inches and 235 pounds, his size is an asset; however, it’s his sharp instincts and coachability that have impressed the USC coaching staff.
“Once you get him on the grass, he just kind of has that naturalness. He understands football, he kind of has a natural feel for it,” linebackers coach Matt Entz said of Stephens’ quick adjustment to college football.
Stephens’ path to USC was not straightforward. Initially committed to Boston College, he decommitted, allowing other competitive programs to enter the mix. Although USC’s interest surfaced late in the recruiting process, the relationship between Stephens and the coaching staff developed rapidly.
“From the jump, it was about trusting Coach [Bennie Wylie], and his plan for me. Everyone here… has obviously been great… and it’s been a great move through and through,” Stephens said, reflecting on his decision to join the Trojans.
The young linebacker highlighted the familiar atmosphere and the strong support from coaches and teammates at USC, which facilitated his transition to college football both on and off the field. As such, that sense of camaraderie has translated into confidence on the field, where Stephens has already begun to make his mark.
Stephens delivered a standout performance in USC’s 33-30 overtime loss to Penn State, marking the first of what the Trojans hope will be many playmaking moments in the young linebacker’s career. He recorded a pivotal interception on Drew Allar and a 42-yard return in the second quarter. His interception came at a crucial moment and set up a field goal for the Trojans. The play highlighted positional versatility and adaptability.
Analyzing the play, Stephens noted, “I had seen we had three over the ball, so I was obviously on the line. I knew I had to get out, and then I got out, saw the [quarterback], then saw that ball, and I had to attack.”
Although he did not score on the return, the interception demonstrated his capacity to read the field and respond quickly under pressure, contributing to USC’s defensive efforts.
Defensive Coordinator D’Anton Lynn didn’t mince words when assessing Stephens’ impact against Penn State.
“He did a bunch of stuff that he’s been doing in practice,” Lynn said. “From the time he got here to now, it’s night and day. So he’s just going to keep on growing, keep on developing.”
Stephens’ growth, as Lynn pointed out, is undeniable, therefore his performance on the field has cemented the coaching staff’s trust in him earning him valuable playing time as a freshman. “We have confidence in him in games, so he’s going to keep on getting snaps each game.... he’s definitely going to be in games,” said Lynn.
Lynn also highlighted how Stephens’ ability to blend his experience as a former safety into his linebacker role was also evident in the game.
Referring to Stephens’ interception against Penn State, Lynn admitted, “I definitely didn’t think he was going to take it that far. I thought he was going to get tackled immediately, so I was impressed.”
Stephens’ physical transformation since arriving at USC has been as striking as his on-field growth. He bulked up significantly, adding nearly 30 pounds to his frame, going from 208 to 235 pounds — a shift that has directly impacted his effectiveness at linebacker.
Teammates have taken notice as well. Defensive end Jamil Muhammad praised Stephens’ consistency, remarking, “That play he made in the game? He makes that play in practice all the time. I’m kind of shocked he didn’t score, but he’s taken the opportunity as a young guy and not let the moment be too big for him.” Muhammad’s comments reflect the growing respect Stephens has earned in the locker room.
USC safety Akili Arnold echoed this sentiment, noting, “Ever since he got here, he’s been making plays. He always runs to the ball, plays super hard, super talented kid, and I’m excited to have him.”
Stephens’ rise has been even more crucial with the absence of veteran linebacker Eric Gentry, who has been sidelined due to a concussion. Gentry’s injury opened the door for Stephens to step up, and he seized the opportunity.
When asked about Gentry’s influence, Stephens acknowledged the energy and passion Gentry brings to the game. “Really, just with [Gentry], his passion and love for the game. Just playing, it radiates honestly. When he makes a big play on the field, he’s getting hyped up, he’s going to scream, he’s going to yell, and it just brings juice. Trying to replicate that and add a new piece to the defense is definitely a role that one of us has to take and step up.”
Stephens’ potential to adapt and replicate Gentry’s intensity will be key to maintaining momentum within the defense, solidifying his place as a critical player in USC’s lineup.
Stephens’ journey to becoming a prominent figure on USC’s defense didn’t come without challenges. Adjusting to the demands of college football while balancing academics and athletic life was a key for him.
“I would say learning just how to be a student, how to be an athlete of the game,” Stephens shared when asked about the biggest transition to college football. “What’s my routine? What am I doing on a daily basis? Just working out my schedule and learning how to do what’s best for me.”
He also credited that his success is not a solo effort. Stephens shared that older linebackers such as Easton Mascarenas-Arnold and Mason Cobb have helped guide him through his first year. He points to the daily grind in practice and the leadership from veterans that has shaped his development. Whether it’s breaking down film or adjusting to the fast pace of the college game, the camaraderie among USC’s linebacker group has been instrumental in his growth.
With his instincts, physical attributes, and dedication to the game, Desman Stephens is a name to watch on the collegiate gridiron. His performance against Penn State was just the beginning as he will continue to grow and become a cornerstone of USC’s linebacker corps.