Jayden Maiava: USC’s pro-ready quarterback is quietly climbing NFL draft boards

Standing 6'4" and weighing 230 pounds, USC quarterback Jayden Maiava looks every bit like an NFL passer; and he plays like one too. A junior with a strong command of the Trojans’ offense, Maiava is rising fast as scouts take a closer look at his physical traits, decision-making, and big-play ability.

Maiava possesses one of the strongest arms in college football. He can fire deep outs, hit tight windows over the middle, and launch vertical shots with ease. His deep ball accuracy is widely considered one of his biggest strengths, allowing USC to stretch defenses and create explosive play opportunities.

On the season, Maiava is completing nearly 67 percent of his passes with 18 touchdowns, and he’s added six rushing scores to showcase his mobility. He’s quick with his decisions, comfortable moving off his first read, and capable of escaping pressure when necessary. His versatility, combined with his size, makes him one of the more intriguing pro-ready prospects in the nation.

What scouts love most is his coachability. Maiava absorbs instruction quickly, adjusts his game week to week, and shows steady improvement in anticipation and ball placement. USC’s offense has become more dynamic as he’s grown more confident, and the Trojans are benefiting from his ability to take command in big moments.

With another year of eligibility, Maiava’s stock could climb even higher, but even now, he looks like a standout prospect with NFL traits written all over him.

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