USC flip four-star QB Jonas Williams from rival Oregon

Frankfort (Ill.) Lincoln-Way East On300 quarterback Jonas Williams has flipped his commitment from Oregon to play for USC and Lincoln Riley.

The four-star Williams is the No. 1 ranked prospect in Illinois and No. 64 prospect in the country. On3 tabs him the No. 6 signal-caller in the class.

“My favorite things that excite me are the relationships I’ve built with Coach Riley, (Luke) Huard, and the GM Chad Bowden,” Williams said. “That was an important factor for me and knowing that this offense will fit my playing style is reassuring.”

Williams also strongly considered LSU and had offers from Georgia, Ole Miss, Oklahoma and many others. He thought about taking some more visits in the spring but this opportunity at USC was one he couldn’t pass on.

“The culture, the area, center of LA, and the people in the building,” Williams said.

Williams visited USC earlier this month. Riley was fresh off coming to see him at his own school.

“Coach Riley, he is the driving factor in the my recruitment,” Williams recently said. “Also what they did with the ’25 class and what they’re doing with the ’26 class is pretty intriguing.”

Williams adds to a USC class that On3 previously ranked No. 2 nationally. They’re making a run at the top spot here in this 2026 cycle.

Williams father John has also spoke highly of USC.

“Obviously a great education out there and the football program speaks for itself and the coaching staff,” the elder Williams said.

“The university is pretty impressive.”

USC is on an impressive quarterback run. Williams has the traits Riley covets.

Scouting Jonas Williams and what he will bring to USC

“Jonas Williams has a very well-rounded game,” On3’s Director of Scouting Charles Power said. “He’s a strong passer. I thought he made strides as a junior. Provides a run threat as well.

“Not a lot of holes in his game right now,” Power continued. “We’ve seen him in person several times over the years. He’s always impressed. Good arm, good mobility, is a good decision-maker and plays with a competitive edge.”

Last fall, Williams guided his team to a 12-1 campaign. He completed 68 percent of his passes for nearly 3,000 yards and 42 touchdowns to just six interceptions. He added 400 rushing yards and seven more scores.

“I think he gives another Top 100 type of talent in the USC quarterback room,” Power said. “I think pairing him with Husan Longstreet gives Lincoln Riley back-to-back Top 10 quarterbacks in a cycle. Also I think both those guys can do everything he asks from his quarterback. The well-roundedness of the game allows for him to improvise, be a run threat and make all the throws. I think the skill set should allow Lincoln Riley to open the playbook.”