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Four-star athlete Tayler Katoa committed to USC on Thursday, giving the Trojans 15 total commits for their 2017 recruiting class. 

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Less than a week ago, Clay Helton’s staff lost two members of their 2017 recruiting staff when 3-star cornerback Wylan Free and 3-star defensive tackle James Lynch decommitted from the Trojans.

Thankfully for the Trojans, on Thursday, they righted the course by adding a pledge from the nation’s No. 28 athlete. Four-star recruit Tayler Katoa, from Layton, Utah, committed to USC, giving the Trojans 15 total commits in the cycle.

USC, with the addition of Katoa, moves up from No. 20 to No. 15 in the 2017 recruiting class rankings. It was tied with Michigan State for that spot at No. 20 but jumped the Spartans, Florida State, Colorado, Louisville, Mississippi State and Washington with the 193 recruiting points it picked up from Katoa’s decision.

Katoa released a brief statement regarding his decision to pledge to the Trojans.

“[My] decision [is] made. [I’m] USC bound. [I’m] excited for the next chapter of my life. Fight on.”

At 6-foot-2, 225 lbs Katoa is also ranked as the No. 2 athlete in the state of Utah. He’s played quarterback, outside linebacker and defensive end. However, on the defensive side of the ball at the next level, Katoa will likely serve as a hybrid edge rusher and outside linebacker. He’s a great tackler and has a knack for getting to the quarterback.

Helton and defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast can mix up their looks with the front seven, give Katoa a couple stunts and tell him to just attack the pocket. He’ll fit in nicely with the Trojans.

Note: Scout rankings, ratings and photos used in this article.

MORE: Projecting Where 4-Star OT Isaiah Wilson Will Commit