With Nick Perry and Matt Kalil announcing their intentions to enter the 2012 NFL Draft, the Trojans needed a bit of good news. It comes in the form of junior safety T.J. McDonald. USC has released a statement confirming McDonald will return for his senior season leaving their starting back seven intact.
McDonald was widely considered the most likely to return of the four juniors (Perry, Kalil, and Matt Barkley). He possesses all the physical tools of a top safety but lacks consistent production and may improve his stock if he can consistently dominate during his senior season. McDonald figured to factor into the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft had he declared.
The junior finished the 2011 season with 69 tackles and 3 INT’s down from a sophomore season that saw him collect 89 tackles and 3 INT’s.
The last of the four to decide for USC remains quarterback Matt Barkley. He is the biggest fish in the USC pond for Lane Kiffin and could make or break USC’s hopes at a National Title run in their post-suspension season. While most expect Barkley to declare it’s leaning towards staying at this point.
