USC head coach Lincoln Riley revealed after Tuesday’s practice that safety Zion Branch recently had a minor procedure on his finger, but he is expected to return quickly.
Riley explained, “Zion had a small procedure on his finger. It’s very minor, and he’ll likely miss just a day or two. He’s had an excellent camp and has been impressive in his performance. We know he’s capable of bouncing back from injuries, and his recovery this time has been even more remarkable. We’re eager to have him back after a strong camp.”
Branch, a former Top 50 recruit, has faced multiple injury setbacks, including a season-ending knee injury before his freshman season and another injury last fall that ended his season after his first career start against California. Although he was limited in spring camp, he was fully prepared as fall camp began.
Branch reflected this summer, “I wasn’t frustrated because I understand my abilities. Having gone through similar injuries before, it wasn’t too difficult for me to handle.”
The Trojans have generally stayed healthy throughout fall camp and into the last two weeks before the 2024 season, though USC did lose redshirt freshman cornerback Maliki Crawford to a season-ending knee surgery during camp.
USC’s strongest position group is the safety unit, featuring experienced players such as Kamari Ramsey, Akili Arnold, Greedy Vance Jr., the versatile Jaylin Smith, former starter Bryson Shaw, seasoned backup Anthony Beavers Jr., and sophomore Christian Pierce. Additionally, USC welcomed two early-enrollee freshmen, Jarvis Boatwright and Marquis Gallegos, to this group in the spring.Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Branch is regarded as the most well-rounded safety on the team due to his combination of size and speed. In 2023, he made 22 total tackles, including one for a loss and a forced fumble, over nine games with one start.
No. 23 USC will kick off the season against No. 13 LSU on September 1 in Las Vegas.
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