One of the most highly-anticipated signings of the 2023 college football recruiting class has finally put pen to paper. Pinnacle tight end Duce Robinson, the 11th overall player in the 2023 CFN Fusion recruiting rankings, has committed to the USC Trojans.
Duce Robinson Commits to USC Trojans
After failing to sign with a college football program in the early signing period, Robinson’s destination remained a mystery through National Signing Day as he remained uncommitted. The uncertainty ended Thursday, when Robinson announced he’ll play football for Lincoln Riley’s USC team.
Robinson is the son of former Florida State two-sport star Dominic Robinson. His mother also swam for the Seminoles. However, the nation’s top tight end unveiled a final five that didn’t include his parents’ alma mater. Georgia landed the dynamic playmaker after fighting off attention from Texas, Alabama, Oregon, and USC.
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The decision to sign with the Trojans brings to an end one of the most contested recruitments in the 2023 class. Robinson, who has a CFN Fusion grade of 99.403, constantly delayed his decision announcement due to being “so torn” between USC and Georgia. In an attempt to sway the top tight end in the nation, both Kirby Smart and Lincoln Riley made home visits to the 11th overall prospect ahead of National Signing Day.
“USC is USC,” Robinson explained his decision to 247 Sports. “Southern California is beautiful, I’ve got great relationships with all of these guys in this class, and I’ve got a great relationship already with Caleb Williams. It doesn’t hurt to have a great relationship with the Heisman Trophy winner.
“Coach Lincoln Riley’s offense and what he does is special. They are such an explosive offense, and it’s something I believe I can really thrive in. They are going to get guys in space, they are going to find ways to get their guys the ball and let them do what they do best.”
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There were further factors clouding Robinson’s decision timeline. Like his father, the Pinnacle tight end is a multi-sport star who has a genuine chance to be a first-round selection in the MLB Draft. The new Trojans TE has drawn comparison in some quarters to Aaron Judge. He’ll play baseball alongside football for the Trojans.
Forgetting the baseball implications for one second, Robinson is a built-in-a-lab prototype at the tight end position. USC is getting a 6’6″, 229-pound stud with verified 35″ arms. He’ll need to add muscle to become a blocking threat, but that shouldn’t be a problem in a college weight room. Speed, smooth movements, and sensational pass-snagging prowess make Robinson a devastating receiving threat.
