2025 OT Elijah Vaikona commits to USC Trojans

Rancho Santa Margarita (Calif.) Santa Margarita Catholic three-star offensive tackle Elijah Vaikona has committed to the USC Trojans, per On3’s Hayes Fawcett.

Vaikona chose Southern Cal over UCLA and Washington.

“All Glory to God! We’re staying home, let’s get to work! #FightOn”

Vaikona is the nation’s No. 1,151 overall prospect, No. 81 offensive tackle and No. 87 recruit from California in the 2025 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking — a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

For more USC recruiting intel, check out WeAreSC.

The 6-foot-8, 370-pounder took his official visit to Los Angeles beginning on June 17.

Vaikona will be a fourth-generation Trojan if he ultimately signs with and attends USC.

“USC is the the first school that you learn about, especially as a Polynesian kid, because almost every great Poly has gone there,” Vaikona told On3 last month. “So, just having the USC offer really means a lot.

“My great-grandfather played basketball at USC and then also went to dental school. So I’d be a fourth-generation USC student. So it’s pretty special, because my mom says USC changed the trajectory of our family.

“We went out to dinner after the camp for my mother’s birthday and I was speechless and shocked. But we did some talking yesterday and today. Being able to play big-time ball, but staying close to home is huge for me.

“My family can come to the games. And wouldn’t be just staying in touch, I’d be able to see them. That would be huge, because my family really is everything to me. And then it’s L.A., so LA kinda has everything in one.”