USC starting center Kilian O'Connor suffers season-ending knee injury

USC starting center Kilian O'Connor will miss the 2026 season after suffering a season-ending knee injury during practice, as announced by head coach Lincoln Riley. The injury occurred in a non-contact drill, impacting a Trojans offense that had high hopes for the upcoming season opener against San Jose State on August 29. O'Connor's leadership was highlighted by Riley, who praised his journey from walk-on to team leader. With O'Connor out, USC considers options to replace him, including guard Tobias Raymond and newcomers Willi Wascher and Kannon Smith. The Trojans are set to open the season ranked No. 14 in the USA Today Coaches Poll.

• 1:06 AMCBS Sports — No. 14 USC loses starting center Kilian O'Connor to season-ending knee injury in practice