The saga of Chasen Johnson has taken another turn. The former UCF cornerback, who burst onto the scene as a true freshman in 2024, has re-entered the transfer portal after briefly returning to Orlando this spring.
Johnson initially transferred out in December and signed with SMU, but never played a down in Dallas before returning to UCF ahead of spring ball.
Now, he’s back in the portal again—and this time, all signs point to USC.
USC recently hired former UCF cornerbacks coach Trovon Reed, who played a key role in Johnson’s early development. That connection alone makes the Trojans a firm favorite to land the 6-foot, 175-pound defensive back, who started multiple games as a freshman and flashed high-end potential in the Big 12.
Johnson’s freshman season was one of the few consistent bright spots in a shaky UCF secondary. His size, athleticism, and instincts made him one of the better young corners in the conference, and it didn’t take long for other programs to take notice once he hit the portal the first time.
Whether it’s USC or someone else, Johnson’s next stop will come with expectations. But after flashing as a freshman and navigating a winding offseason, the talented corner should have no shortage of Power Four suitors looking for immediate help in the secondary.
