In a development that has sent ripples through the college football recruiting world, Cole Leinart, the son of former USC star and Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart, has officially committed to SMU. The promising quarterback prospect from Redondo Union High School in California announced his decision on Wednesday, becoming the second member of head coach Rhett Lashlee’s 2026 recruiting class.
Standing at an impressive 6-foot-3, the right-handed Leinart had garnered interest from several Power 4 programs. However, he ultimately chose the Mustangs over offers from Colorado, Arizona, and Utah. Expressing his enthusiasm for the program, Leinart told sources, “The culture they’re building at SMU — I just want to be a part of it. I love the coaching staff. They’re literally like family now.”
A Legacy in the Making
Cole Leinart’s commitment to SMU comes nearly 19 years after his father, Matt Leinart, concluded a legendary playing career at USC. The elder Leinart etched his name in college football history as a three-time All-American with the Trojans from 2001 to 2005. During his tenure, USC achieved a remarkable 37-2 record over three seasons with Matt Leinart as the starting quarterback, clinching back-to-back national titles in 2003 and 2004.
Matt Leinart’s individual accomplishments were equally impressive, setting 16 program records during his college career and becoming USC’s sixth Heisman Trophy winner in 2004. His success at the collegiate level paved the way for a six-season stint in the NFL with the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, and Raiders.
Building a Bright Future at SMU
Cole Leinart joins cornerback Victor Lincoln from Lancaster, Texas, as the second prospect committed to SMU’s 2026 class. The Mustangs have been making significant strides on the recruiting trail, particularly at the quarterback position. In the 2025 cycle, SMU secured a commitment from four-star dual-threat passer Ty Hawkins, who flipped from TCU in July. Hawkins is one of three ESPN 300 prospects pledged to SMU’s 2025 class, which currently ranks 28th in the nation.
Leinart’s path to SMU began when the Mustangs extended him a scholarship offer under former coach Sonny Dykes, prior to Leinart’s freshman year of high school. Although Dykes moved on to TCU shortly thereafter, Leinart maintained contact with SMU and forged a close relationship with Coach Lashlee, who is entering his third year at the helm.
They’ve been No. 1 for a long time and then I got out to a game this past weekend. It was awesome to see. The offense is open. The defense is lights out, and it’s just a fun team. The whole vibe is just awesome. I’m happy to be a part of it.
– Cole Leinart on his decision to commit to SMU
Carrying on a Family Tradition
For Cole Leinart, pursuing a college football career represents an opportunity to continue a proud family legacy in the sport. “Everyone sees the last name, but they don’t really see the work that my parents put in for me to get to this place,” Leinart reflected. “This isn’t just me. This is everything. I get to carry the tradition and play football and I think they’re happy for me.”
The young quarterback began his high school journey at powerhouse Mater Dei High School, following in his father’s footsteps. He later transferred to Newport Harbor before ultimately landing at Redondo Union for his junior season. After being sidelined for four games due to California Interscholastic Federation transfer rules, Leinart made his debut on Sept. 27 and is now poised to lead Redondo Union into the 2024 postseason.
A Promising Future for SMU Football
SMU’s football program has been on the rise in recent years, and Cole Leinart’s commitment is yet another sign of the Mustangs’ growing prominence. In the first College Football Playoff rankings released on Tuesday, SMU secured the No. 13 spot with an impressive 8-1 record. The team is currently on a bye week, preparing for a pivotal matchup against Boston College on Nov. 16.
As Cole Leinart embarks on the next chapter of his football journey, the college football world eagerly awaits to see how he will contribute to SMU’s success and forge his own path in the sport. With a talented young core and a committed coaching staff, the Mustangs are well-positioned to make noise in the years to come, and Leinart’s decision to join the program only adds to the excitement surrounding SMU football.
