Top-100 SAF Hylton Stubbs decommits from USC Trojans

Jacksonville Mandarin four-star safety Hylton Stubbs has decommitted from USC. Stubbs announced his decision in a letter on social media.

Dear Coach Riley,

After careful consideration, prayer, and reflection, I have decided to decommit from the University of Southern California. This decision was not made lightly, and it comes after thoughtful discussions with my family and mentors. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Coach Riley, Coach Lynn, Coach Belk, Coach Mayes, Coach Baw and the entire USC staff for their unwavering support and for offering me the incredible opportunity to join the Trojan family. I am truly grateful for the kindness and belief you have shown in me.

Presently, I feel it is best for me to explore other options to ensure I find the perfect fit for my future both academically and athletically. This journey has been a valuable experience, and I am excited to see what the future holds.

Thank you to everyone at USC for understanding and supporting my decision. Fight On!

Sincerely,
Hylton “Drake “Stubbs

Stubbs initially pledged to the Trojans on March 24 alongside five-stars Justus Terry and Isaiah Gibson. Now, none of the three are members of USC’s 2025 class.

Stubbs is the nation’s No. 56 overall prospect, No. 5 safety and No. 7 recruit from Florida 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.

Although Stubbs ultimately chose the Trojans, multiple expert predictions had been entered in March in favor of Florida. He took his official visit to Gainesville the weekend of June 14. Florida’s campus is just an hour-and-a-half away from Stubbs’ high school.

“They’re very close to home,” Stubbs told On3 earlier this month. “They have shown interest in me forever. They’re still pushing for me, so I’m definitely interested in people that are very interested in me.” 

Stubbs also took an official visit to Miami last weekend. He spoke with Miami staff members, including head coach Mario Cristobal, defensive coordinator Lance Guidry, and defensive back coach Chevis Jackson.

“I just love the staff, got to build a better relationship, way better relationship over this visit,” Stubbs told On3. “I love the staff, what they’re doing. I’m loving everything for sure. I love coach Cristobal, and the staff are amazing people to be around.”