Derek Diniz

Diniz, who enrolled at USC in the summer of 2026, looks to compete for playing time as a cornerback as a true freshman in 2026. HIGH SCHOOL: As a senior in 2025, Diniz appeared in 5 games and completed 2-of-3 passes (66.7%) for 20 yards and 2 TDs. He also rushed for 54 yards on 6 carries (9.0 avg.) and had 13 receptions for 209 yards (16.1 avg.) and 5 TDs. Defensively, he recorded 2 solo tackles. As a junior in 2024, he appeared in 8 games and completed his lone pass attempt for 27 yards and 1 TD. He rushed for 72 yards on 3 carries (24.0 avg.) and collected 27 receptions for 501 yards (18.6 avg.) and 5 TDs. On defense, he recorded 46 total tackles, including 1 for loss and 2 INTs. As a sophomore in 2023, he appeared in 7 games and rushed for 9 total yards on 5 carries (1.8 avg.) while adding 1 reception for 13 yards. Defensively, he posted 49 total tackles, including 4 tackles for loss, along with 2 INTs, 1 forced fumble and 1 fumble recovery. Throughout his high school football career, Diniz was a two-time All-Pacific Coast Athletic League Mission South: First Team: selection. Diniz also played varsity basketball for three years at Stevenson. PERSONAL: He is majoring in Journalism at USC.