Malachi Nelson, the highly-touted No. 1 recruit according to ESPN’s 2023 recruiting class rankings, is making waves with his decision to transfer out of USC.
Having been a former five-star recruit, Nelson spent the 2023 season at USC, where he found himself playing second fiddle to Caleb Williams. However, last month, he made the bold choice to part ways with the Trojans program. Since then, his name has been circulating in connection with several prominent college football programs. Surprisingly, his first official transfer visit will take him to Boise State.
ESPN broke the news, with Pete Thamel reporting that Malachi Nelson is set to visit Boise State in the upcoming days. This visit marks a significant step in Nelson’s journey following his departure from USC.
Sources: Quarterback Malachi Nelson, the former No. 1 ESPN overall recruit from 2023, will take an official visit to Boise State in the upcoming days. Nelson transferred out of USC after one season, and Boise will mark his first official visit. pic.twitter.com/oD8wWVqYca
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 4, 2024
While Boise State may not have been the most expected landing spot for Nelson, it’s important to note that this is just the beginning of his exploration.
USC’s head coach, Lincoln Riley, expressed his surprise at Nelson’s decision to transfer, acknowledging the shift it brings to the program. With Nelson’s departure, Riley indicated that USC is now considering bringing in a younger quarterback to fill the void. The quarterback position holds great intrigue for the team, and USC is actively exploring options in the transfer portal.
Riley also hinted at the possibility of recruiting two quarterbacks from the portal, potentially one with experience and another on the younger side.
USC concluded the 2023 season on a positive note, securing a victory in the Holiday Bowl. As they navigate the post-Nelson era, the Trojans are gearing up for a new chapter with evolving strategies and player acquisitions.