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Kamari Ramsey explains decision to return to USC in 2025

Grant Grubbs Profile Pictureby:Grant Grubbs•12/29/24•

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USC safety Kamari Ramsey on the field during a game against the Wisconsin Badgers
USC safety Kamari Ramsey on the field during a game against the Wisconsin Badgers (acscottphotography/WeAreSC)

On Dec. 19, USC safety Kamari Ramsey announced he will be returning next season. After the Trojans’ 35-31 comeback win over Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl on Friday, Ramsey pulled back the curtain on his massive decision.

“I have some unfinished business as a Trojan,” Ramsey said. “Want to come back. Obviously, the season didn’t go the way we wanted, but the fight that we showed in every game, in the wins and the losses, showed me what type of team and program that we’re going into. So that was the biggest thing I saw and what helped me make my decision to come back.”

Ramsey led USC with seven tackles in its win over Texas A&M. It was nothing new for the standout safety, who boasted 60 tackles this season, the most of any defensive back on the team.

Ramsey also recorded two sacks, two forced fumbles, five passes defended and an interception this season. Ramsey transferred to USC ahead of the 2023 campaign after spending two seasons at crosstown rival UCLA.

Ramsey’s decision is a massive boost for USC heading into the offseason. The team will lose four of its five starters in the secondary this offseason. Thus, returning Ramsey is one less concern for the Trojans.

Kamari Ramsey’s comments on Friday echoed the sentiment of his initial announcement.

“As a local kid from LA, it’s been an honor to represent my city by playing at USC,” Ramsey wrote. “… I’m extremely grateful to Coach Riley, Coach Lynn, Coach Belk and everyone on the USC coaching staff for giving me an opportunity to live out my dream. They have been fundamental in my development as a player and in my growth as a person. After transferring in, I immediately felt embraced by my teammates. I’m blessed to be a part of this brotherhood.”

“USC is a special place, and I’ve loved being a part of the Trojan Family. After much prayer and discussion, I’ve decided that there’s more I want to accomplish with my teammates. I’m excited to run out of the Coliseum tunnel again next season wearing the Cardinal and Gold.”

Despite finishing with a 7-6 record this season, USC’s defense showed improvement, only allowing 377.1 yards per game. For reference, USC’s defense gave up 432.8 yards per game last season.