The USC Trojans are set to experience significant changes on their coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season. Following the departure of defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, the Trojans are now also looking for a new secondary coach, as Doug Belk will reportedly not return for the 2026 season. Belk’s exit marks a notable loss for USC, given his reputation as one of the top recruiters on the staff and his leadership of one of the most crucial positions in the Trojans’ defensive lineup.
Ranked as the No. 12 recruiter nationally by 247Sports, Belk played an instrumental role in securing commitments from four-star cornerbacks Elbert Hill, Brandon Lockhart, and Peyton Dyer for the 2026 recruiting class. Despite facing injuries and inconsistent performances last season, he effectively developed safeties Christian Pierce and Bishop Fitzgerald, with Fitzgerald earning accolades as an AP All-American.
The Trojans’ defensive staff has seen more changes, as Lynn has accepted a position as the defensive coordinator at Penn State. Lynn, who once played for the Nittany Lions, had been a pivotal figure for the Trojans before his move, highlighting the increasing turnover within the program’s defensive coaching ranks.
With Lynn’s departure, USC finds itself without a defensive coordinator to lead the recruitment efforts for a new secondary coach. Head coach Lincoln Riley faces the challenge of filling these critical vacancies while maintaining the defensive unit’s competitive edge. This marks Riley’s third search for a defensive coordinator, having previously moved on from Alex Grinch after two seasons and hiring Lynn from UCLA.
The Trojans’ defensive coordinator opening has attracted considerable interest, with speculation surrounding potential candidates, including former TCU coach Gary Patterson and Pete Kwiatkowski, the ex-Texas defensive coordinator. Kwiatkowski’s connection with USC athletic director Jen Cohen adds further intrigue to the coaching search, although both parties appear to have diverged in their discussions.
Interestingly, Belk’s experience as a former defensive coordinator at Houston positioned him as a potential candidate for the role now vacated by Lynn, underscoring his capabilities within the coaching landscape. As USC navigates this transitional phase, the focus remains on securing the right personnel to strengthen the program for its future endeavors.