Elite 2026 Maryland LB Nick Abrams II Names USC Among Top Schools
The recruiting battle for Nick Abrams II, one of the top linebackers in the 2026 class, is heating up, and the USC Trojans are firmly in the mix. The elite prospect out of Maryland has been making waves on the recruiting trail, recently narrowing down his list of top schools, with Southern California securing a coveted spot.
Abrams’ Rise as a Top Defensive Prospect
Standing at 6-foot-2, 225 pounds, Nick Abrams II has established himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in the country. A standout at St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, MD)—a program known for producing elite college talent—Abrams has showcased a rare combination of size, speed, and instincts that have made him a sought-after recruit.
His ability to read offenses, drop back in coverage, and make plays in the backfield has drawn comparisons to some of the best linebackers to come through the high school ranks. His sideline-to-sideline speed and aggressive tackling style make him a perfect fit for modern defensive schemes.
USC Making a Strong Push
The USC Trojans, led by head coach Lincoln Riley and defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, have made Abrams a priority target for their 2026 class. The program’s aggressive recruiting approach, coupled with its recent defensive resurgence, has put them in prime position to land the Maryland native.
Abrams recently spoke about his interest in USC, highlighting the program’s rich football tradition, strong NFL pipeline, and the opportunity to play in Los Angeles as key factors in his decision-making process.
“USC has always been a program I’ve admired,” Abrams said. “The coaching staff is building something special, and the way they develop defensive talent is exciting to me. It’s a place where I could see myself thriving.”
The Competition for Abrams
While USC has made a strong impression, they are far from the only program vying for Abrams’ commitment. Other top schools in his final list include:
- Alabama Crimson Tide – The perennial powerhouse continues to produce elite linebackers, and Nick Saban’s program has long been a top destination for defensive talent.
- Georgia Bulldogs – The back-to-back national champions under Kirby Smart have built a defensive dynasty, and Abrams has taken note of how they develop linebackers for the NFL.
- Ohio State Buckeyes – A dominant force in the Big Ten, Ryan Day and his staff have been recruiting Abrams aggressively, pitching their history of producing first-round defensive talent.
- Penn State Nittany Lions – A school with a rich history of linebackers, James Franklin has positioned Penn State as a serious contender in Abrams’ recruitment.
- Maryland Terrapins – The hometown school has put together a strong pitch to keep Abrams close to home, with head coach Mike Locksley making it clear that he wants the state’s top talent to stay in Maryland.
What’s Next for Abrams?
With the 2026 recruiting cycle still in its early stages, Nick Abrams II is taking his time evaluating his options. He is expected to take multiple official visits over the next year before making a final decision. USC is likely to host him for a visit, where they’ll look to make a lasting impression.
While there is still plenty of time for movement in his recruitment, one thing is clear—Nick Abrams II is one of the most highly sought-after defensive players in the country, and the Trojans are making a strong push to bring him to Los Angeles.
Final Thoughts
As the USC Trojans continue to build their defense under Lincoln Riley, landing a player like Nick Abrams II would be a major step toward securing their future in the trenches. With elite programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State also in the hunt, USC will have to pull out all the stops to land one of the best linebackers in the 2026 class.
Stay tuned as this recruitment battle unfolds—Abrams’ final decision could shake up the college football landscape.
