Four-Star WR Ja'Kobi Lane commits to USC

Four-star wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane of Mesa (AZ) Red Mountain High announced his commitment to USC Friday afternoon.

The 6-foot-5, 185 pounder chose the Trojans over Oregon, Kansas State, and Texas A&M.

Lane on why he chose USC

“The family friendly vibe was unmatched,” Lane said. “It was an instant connection, and I think the biggest part was there was a plan for me to be a part of something special, play a big role, and be able to be a go to guy whenever. The reason I’m going is to compete every day with the best, and make not only myself but the people around me better in order to win games.”

Relationship with coaching staff + USC’s plan 

“Coach Huard and coach Colbert were the ones I was first in contact with and started to communicate with,” Lane said. “But coach Riley was the one that has consistently texted me every day, and kept in contact with me the whole time. I think the plan is to go in and be a real weapon and be available and ready to compete. I want to contribute as fast as I can and be a student of the game, take every two seriously and really perfect my craft.”

Thoughts and expectations for USC ‘23 Class

“I think going in just holding each other to a higher standard,” Lane said. “I think they do a very good job of realizing that this is more than a social media thing. We all have a common goal, and that is to be great and go to the NFL. So I think when you keep it black and white and you have people around you such as Malachi and Zach the possibilities are endless and we will have a ton of fun.”

Ja’Kobi Lane Scouting Summary

“Jump ball fiend who is an absolute menace when it comes to 50-50 balls. Long and lean athletic build with plenty of room to grow,” On3’s Director of Scouting Charles Power wrote. “Stands in at 6-foot-4, over 170 pounds with a 6-foot-8 wingspan. Jumped a freaky 34-inch vertical for his size during the spring camp circuit prior to his junior season. Body positioning and balance is second to none compared to other X-type receivers in the 2023 recruiting cycle.”

“Natural pass catcher who has strong hands and plucks the ball with ease. Totaled 76 catches for 990 yards and 14 touchdowns during his junior campaign. Solid twitch for his size, can get off the line of scrimmage. Lacks top end speed in order to separate from defenders when pushing vertically. Will be a significant red zone threat at the next level and can see his NFL stock rise as he gets stronger and more explosive with a collegiate strength and conditioning program.”
Lane currently ranks as the No. 389 Player in the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that accounts for all four major recruiting services. He also tabs in at the No. 54 wide receiver, and the No.9 player in the state of Arizona.