At USC, Jonah Monheim stands as a steady presence amidst the team’s many changes. As a fifth-year senior, Monheim is gearing up for his final season in cardinal and gold, bringing both experience and leadership to the Trojans. Set to start at center for USC in the upcoming season opener against LSU, Monheim will be taking on his fourth different offensive line position at USC, having previously played extensively at left tackle, right guard, and right tackle.
Monheim’s career at USC has been marked by versatility and resilience. In 2023, he started all 13 games, including 12 at left tackle and one at right guard during the Holiday Bowl, earning a spot on the Associated Press All-Pac-12 second team. His previous seasons saw him starting 11 times at right tackle and three times at right guard in 2022, which earned him an All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention. Throughout his career, he has played in 40 games with 34 starts, showcasing his adaptability and solidifying his role on the team.
Reflecting on the 2023 season, Monheim emphasized the importance of focusing on the details and building strong team relationships. He noted that despite the team’s talent, a lack of attention to finer details and cohesive execution led to unmet expectations. He stressed the need for improvement in these areas to enhance overall team performance.
As USC transitions into the Big Ten, Monheim and his teammates have undergone significant physical changes. Monheim, now listed at 310 pounds, has added weight and muscle to meet the demands of the conference. This increase in size, which is 15 to 20 pounds more than his previous weight, is part of a broader effort to enhance the team’s physical presence. Alongside Monheim, the other starting offensive linemen have collectively gained 30 pounds, reflecting the emphasis on strength and size.
Monheim’s commitment to adjusting his physique comes from a combination of personal experience and trust in his coaches. He acknowledges that while adjusting to his new weight and maintaining mobility is challenging, he relies on the expertise of his coaches who have extensive experience in developing athletes.
With Caleb Williams, the former Heisman Trophy winner and top NFL draft pick, now in training camp with the Chicago Bears, USC has a new quarterback in fourth-year junior Miller Moss. Monheim praised Williams for his authenticity and generosity, recounting how Williams invited eight offensive linemen to the Heisman ceremony, which highlighted his character and leadership.
As the new season begins, Monheim will work closely with Moss, who has embraced his role as the starting quarterback. Monheim has noted Moss’s development as a leader and his confidence, which positively impacts the team. Monheim himself has had to step up his vocal leadership and responsibilities, embracing the role of a seasoned player and guiding his teammates.
Overall, Monheim’s experience, leadership, and physical adjustments are pivotal as USC prepares for a new chapter in the Big Ten. His role at center, alongside Moss’s leadership at quarterback, will be crucial in shaping the Trojans’ performance in the upcoming season.
