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3mo ago

USC Star Makai Lemon Declares for 2026 NFL Draft, Will Skip Alamo Bowl

The Biletnikoff winner’s decision forces USC to adjust its Alamo Bowl approach.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 29: Makai Lemon #6 of the USC Trojans celebrates his touchdown during the game against UCLA Bruins at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on November 29, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images)
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Sep 20, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) runs for a touchdown against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images.

Overview

  • Lemon announced his draft entry after a breakout junior season, formally opting out of USC’s Dec. 30 Alamo Bowl against TCU.
  • He finished 2025 with 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns and captured the Biletnikoff Award along with multiple All‑America honors.
  • Draft outlook varies by outlet, with CBS ranking him the No. 3 wide receiver and a potential first‑rounder, Mel Kiper Jr. listing him as WR3 and No. 10 overall, and Bleacher Report placing him No. 23 overall and WR4.
  • USC faces the bowl without its top receivers after Lincoln Riley said both would sit, with fellow wideout Ja’Kobi Lane and tight end Lake McRee also headed to the draft.
  • Lemon departs with 137 career catches for 2,008 yards and 14 touchdowns as USC turns to returning quarterback Jayden Maiava and emerging receivers for 2026.