USC recruiting: Junior college players expected to make quick impact

USC Coach Steve Sarkisian is not thinking a few years ahead when he recruits junior college players.

He is seeking talent that can provide an immediate impact.

“The one thing I tell those guys is ‘We’re not recruiting you to develop you, which we will still do, but you’re coming here to play,’” Sarkisian said.

Isaac Whitney, a receiver from Riverside City College, signed a financial-aid agreement with USC last week and will enroll in January. He has two seasons of eligibility remaining.

Whitney, 6 feet 4 and 200 pounds, played a season at Division II Central Oklahoma before transferring to Riverside. He had 49 receptions for 809 yards and four touchdowns this season.

Sarkisian said he liked Whitney’s combination of speed, athleticism and maturity. “The height that he possesses but then his ability to move like a smaller guy is something very unique,” Sarkisian said.

If junior Nelson Agholor does not make himself available for the NFL draft, USC next season will have six returning receivers and two-way threat Adoree’ Jackson. Sarkisian said the addition of Whitney in January would create more competition in the group.

“We are at our best here at ‘SC when there is competition at every position,” Sarkisian said. Whitney is the fifth recruit to sign a financial-aid agreement.

Ventura St. Bonaventure High quarterback Ricky Town, Granite Bay linebacker Cameron Smith, Los Angeles Windward offensive lineman Roy Hemsley and Powder Springs (Ga.) McEachern offensive lineman Chuma Edoga are on track to enroll in January.

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