USC is gearing up for the start of its 2026 football season, slated to open on August 29 against San Jose State. The announcement comes as part of a series of tributes the university is rolling out to honor former standout players who shaped Trojan history.
Among those being celebrated is Charles Young, a former All‑American tight end who starred for USC from 1970 to 1972. During his college tenure he amassed 68 receptions for 1,090 yards and 10 touchdowns, earning unanimous All‑American honors in 1972 and helping the team capture a national championship.
A Legendary Career
Young’s professional journey lasted 13 seasons in the NFL, where he played for the Philadelphia Eagles, the Los Angeles Rams, the San Francisco 49ers and the Cincinnati Bengals. He was selected sixth overall in the 1973 draft, earned two Pro Bowl selections and capped his career with a Super Bowl XVI victory in the 1981 season.
Beyond the field, Young’s three daughters also wore Trojan colors in track and field, adding another layer of family pride to his legacy. He was later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004 and named to the Pac‑12 All‑Century Team in 2015.
USC’s athletic department notes that Young’s story is a reminder of the program’s enduring impact, both on the field and in the broader community. As the Trojans count down to kickoff, the tribute underscores the deep connections between past legends and the current roster.