Cornerback/safety Jaylin Smith became the top drafted Trojan -- landing No. 97 to the Houston Texans. USC previously produced a first rounder every season during the 2020s decade. Yet Pro Football Focus believes Smith is a reach in the third round.

Eighteen picks after adding Iowa State wide receiver Jaylin Noel, the Houston Texans secured another J name to add to the crew for 2025 with USC defensive back Jaylin Smith. After trading back from No. 89, Houston moved up five spots with the Minnesota Vikings to secure another weapon for the secondary.