USC will certainly feel the wait was worth it.

On Thursday, Phoenix (Ariz.) Pinnacle tight end Duce Robinson announced his commitment to USC, ending a monthslong recruitment that went back and forth between USC and Georgia for the No. 1 tight end in the class.

USC announced his addition moments later.

The 6-foot-6, 225-pound Robinson is rated as a 5-star prospect in the industry-generated 247 Composite and the No. 17 overall recruit in the 2023 class.

 

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Robinson let the traditional signing day windows pass as he attempted to reach a decision. Complicating the process were Robinson’s very real prospects of playing professional baseball. He has said throughout the process he would welcome the idea of being a multi-sport athlete at the college level. But he’s also hoping to be selected early in the MLB Draft this summer.

“I want to play both sports professionally,” Robinson told The Athletic’s Grace Raynor.

USC has long been after Robinson’s signature and was content to let him work through his own process.

In 14 games as a senior last fall, Robinson hauled in 84 receptions for 1,614 yards and 14 touchdowns. He was often the target of double teams and still helped Pinnacle to the 6A state championship game. As a junior, Robinson hauled in another 60 catches for 972 yards and eight touchdowns.

USC head coach Lincoln Riley met with reporters on Tuesday of this week and, among other things, was asked how he feels about depth at tight end in light of news that Malcolm Epps was entering the transfer portal.

“Right now? Today? Not good,” he replied with a laugh.

With Robinson on board, it’s a new day. He’s the kind of prospect who can step into the fold Day 1 and be a contributor.

You can view his highlight tape below, via Hudl: