USC Trojans linebacker Gentry, who missed 2024 because of many concussions, is now fit and prepared to show everyone why he was one of the Pac-12’s most promising defensive prospects, according to his new coach, Rob Ryan.
Why Eric Gentry Could Be USC’s Defensive Star in 2025
According to his linebackers coach, Ryan, Gentry has yet to prove himself to the college football world despite his familiarity with hype. As the Trojans prepare for the 2025 campaign, Ryan, who never backs down from audacious assertions, recently stated, “Well, they haven’t seen Gentry,” indicating high expectations for the 6’6″ senior.
I asked Rob Ryan, USC’s new LBs coach, about coaching Eric Gentry.
“I’ve never coached a guy who can cover every tight end in the country. He can,” Ryan said. “All these tight ends like Bowers and all that who are killing people — well, they haven’t seen Gentry.” pic.twitter.com/UR8XIqVYuG
— Ryan Kartje (@Ryan_Kartje) May 1, 2025
Not every linebacker is like Gentry. He appears more like an NBA forward than a middle-of-the-field enforcer at 6’6″ with a 7’1″ wingspan. Thanks to his size, he is a versatile danger anywhere on the field, which also provides him a significant edge in coverage. Gentry can lock up tight ends, drop into the zone, and rush the passer.
Gentry only played 29 of 64 snaps in USC’s 2024 opener versus LSU before being sidelined due to health issues, but he still recorded seven tackles. He played a variety of positions, including the box for 15 snaps, the edge for 10, and the slot for 4.
This hybrid adaptability is exactly what USC’s new defensive coaching staff is looking for.
The USC defence has had trouble staying consistent and defining itself in recent years. However, under linebackers coach Matt Entz and new defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, the plan is finally beginning to work with the talent.
He has excellent in-zone skills and has rush value. “Suddenly, his arms go from the hash to the numbers when we’re just playing some big zone defence,” Entz said. “He’s just that big of a body.”
Gentry is relieved and excited about the new staff. “Having people who know what to do with me feels good,” he remarked. I’m a special player. There is only one me in the entire nation.”
Bouncing Back From Setbacks
Gentry battled recurring concussions until being redshirted in 2024. Instead of persevering and jeopardizing his long-term health, he took the year off to recuperate, which could ultimately result in a far longer football career. He has gained weight and is more motivated than ever after being cleared.
USC coaches have set a weight goal of about 220 pounds to keep Gentry healthy throughout the season. If he can stay healthy, his ceiling is as high as anyone else’s on the squad.
KEEP READING: 2025 Way-Too-Early College Football Top 25 Power Rankings
Gentry comes into 2025 as one of USC’s most crucial players, with a fresh coaching staff, a better grasp of the defence, and a chip on his shoulder. If a defence needs a game-changer, he might be it.
Rob Ryan thinks Gentry is prepared to go forward. And the Trojans will need every bit of what their gigantic linebacker has to provide if they want to contend for the playoffs.
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