The USC Trojans have successfully retained starting quarterback Jayden Maiava following the 2025 season, a significant achievement considering the allure of transferring or potentially going pro. Maiava’s decision to stay appears to stem largely from his appreciation for the coaching staff, particularly head coach Lincoln Riley. In reflecting on his choice, Maiava emphasized the strong connections he has formed: “Coach Riley. The staff, obviously, too, and my brothers.”
Lincoln Riley’s track record with quarterbacks illustrates his remarkable ability to nurture talent. Under Riley’s guidance, USC has seen the emergence of top NFL Draft picks, including Caleb Williams. Furthermore, during his tenure at Oklahoma, he mentored high-profile players like Jalen Hurts, Kyler Murray, and Baker Mayfield. Maiava recognizes that Riley’s coaching could be pivotal in elevating his game and potentially enhancing his prospects for a future in the NFL.
Maiava, initially a three-star recruit from Kaimuki, Honolulu, was relatively overlooked, being ranked as the 54th quarterback in his class before his transition from UNLV to USC prior to the 2024 season. His journey at USC has not been without challenges, as he initially played behind Miller Moss but eventually claimed the starting position in his second year.
In the 2025 season, Maiava showcased his skills across 12 games, completing 66.2 percent of his passes for a personal best of 3,431 yards and 23 touchdowns, while also managing to limit his interceptions to eight. Additionally, he demonstrated his versatility by rushing for 150 yards and scoring six more touchdowns.
Riley has noted Maiava’s growth as a quarterback, highlighting the mental aspects of his game. “Jayden has done a really nice job leading our team and leading our offense this year. Certainly one of the most improved players on our roster, grew a lot throughout the offseason,” Riley remarked. He praised Maiava’s command of the offense and leadership qualities, expressing pride in his progress and excitement for what lies ahead.
Maiava’s decision to continue at USC signals confidence in both his abilities and the supportive environment provided by Riley and the coaching staff. With the Trojans poised for future success, the culmination of Maiava’s hard work could lead to promising opportunities in his football career.