USC Trojans safety Kamari Ramsey (7)
After a season filled with uncertainty and the usual postseason turmoil, the USC Trojans finally got some much-needed good news on Thursday. Defensive back Kamari Ramsey, one of the standout players on the Trojans’ defense, announced that he will be returning to USC for the 2024 season. The decision is a huge win for USC, especially as the Trojans had to deal with key departures via the transfer portal and some tough calls for next season’s roster.
Ramsey, a third-year sophomore, could have easily entered the NFL Draft and likely would have been ranked highly as a safety. But instead of making the leap to the professional ranks, he decided to continue his college career, citing a desire to achieve more with his teammates.
“After much prayer and discussion, I’ve decided that there’s more I want to accomplish with my teammates,” Ramsey shared in a statement posted on Twitter. “I’m excited to run out of the Coliseum tunnel again next season wearing the Cardinal and Gold.”
Ramsey’s decision to return is crucial for USC’s defense, and it couldn’t come at a better time. The Trojans have recently dealt with losses in the transfer portal, most notably losing key defensive backs Zachariah Branch and Zion Branch. Given those departures, Ramsey’s return helps provide much-needed stability to a defense that has seen its fair share of attrition.
A Critical Piece for USC’s Defense
Ramsey’s impact on the field this season has been undeniable. In 2024, the defensive back registered 53 tackles, two forced fumbles, and two sacks, showing his ability to contribute both in coverage and as a tackler near the line of scrimmage. His versatility and playmaking ability make him one of the key players in USC’s defensive backfield and a crucial asset for next season.
What makes Ramsey’s decision even more significant is his journey to USC. After spending his first two years at UCLA, Ramsey transferred to USC to join defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, and it appears the move has paid off. He’s quickly become one of the most reliable members of the Trojans’ defense and will look to build on that success next season as the Trojans look to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 campaign.
Rebuilding Momentum for USC
This announcement also comes at a time when USC desperately needs some positive news. After a tough season that featured several setbacks on both sides of the ball, the Trojans have struggled to maintain momentum. Former head coach Urban Meyer recently discussed the importance of USC regaining its swagger, especially with the challenges that come with both a highly competitive Pac-12 and the uncertainty of the transfer portal era.
Ramsey’s return is an important first step in rebuilding that momentum. USC still has one more game to play in the 2024 season, with a bowl matchup against Texas A&M. A win in that game would help give the Trojans some much-needed positive energy heading into the offseason, and Ramsey’s return only adds to that sense of optimism.
Looking Ahead
With Ramsey back in the fold, USC can head into 2025 with confidence in their defense, especially in the secondary. The Trojans still have plenty of work to do to rebuild their roster and culture, but Ramsey’s decision to stay provides a much-needed building block. As USC looks to improve under head coach Lincoln Riley, keeping key players like Ramsey will be crucial to achieving the program’s lofty goals.
For the USC Trojans, the 2024 offseason is already looking brighter thanks to Ramsey’s return. It’s a moment of good news that the team and its fans can build on as they prepare for next season’s challenges. And for Kamari Ramsey, it’s clear he believes there’s more work to be done in Los Angeles.
