4-star EDGE Simote Katoanga commits to USC

Rancho Santa Margarita (Calif.) Catholic four-star EDGE Simote Katoanga has committed to USC.

He chose the Trojans over Oregon, Notre Dame, Ohio State and myriad other Power Four offers.

Katoanga is the No. 95 overall prospect and No. 10 EDGE in the 2026 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 12 player in California.

On3 ranks the 6-foot-5, 240-pounder higher than other recruiting services. He checks in as the No. 52 recruit, No. 8 EDGE and No. 7 player in the Golden State, per the On300.

Katoanga is another big February recruiting victory for head coach Lincoln Riley and his staff as USC pushes for the No. 1 spot in the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings early on in the cycle. His pledge comes just a couple of days after the Trojans flipped Frankfort Heights (Ill.) Lincoln-Way East four-star quarterback Jonas Williams from Oregon.

USC has had Katoanga on campus four times throughout his process, including a visit earlier this month. The coaching staff prioritized the blue-chipper and he responded with an early commitment ahead of the spring.

“One of the biggest highlights of my visit was my meetings with the coaches,” Katoanga told On3 after his latest visit. “I spoke with coach D’Anton Lynn, coach Shaun Nua, coach Eric Henderson and coach Lincoln Riley. They make me feel needed and like a priority. I love what they are building and can’t wait to see what their future looks like.”