After losing offensive tackle Carde Smith, the USC Trojans quickly addressed their need for an additional lineman in the 2025 class by securing a big commitment from 4-star offensive tackle Alex Payne. The 6’5″, 285-pound prospect from Gainesville, Georgia, is ranked as the 15th-best tackle in the class and is considered an upgrade over Smith.
Payne had previously expressed concerns about moving far from home, as he had never traveled west of Tennessee. However, after several FaceTime conversations with the Trojans’ coaching staff and a visit to Southern California, he began to see the opportunity as a perfect fit. Payne noted, “At first, I thought, no way, that’s too far away from home. But the more I talked with the coaches… I could start seeing myself playing for those guys.”
The Trojans’ successful official visits this season, combined with the growing “Georgia family” forming in Los Angeles, played a key role in Payne’s decision. With this commitment, offensive line coach Josh Henson continues to build a strong 2025 offensive line for USC, and the Trojans are expected to land at least one more commitment before signing day.
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