USC's Bear Alexander has decided to take a redshirt year after having a diminished role on the No. 13 Trojans’ defense over the first three games of this season.

USC football head coach Lincoln Riley isn't very interested in talking about Bear Alexander's redshirt decision.

USC DT Bear Alexander, who had expressed displeasure with his playing time after three games, is taking a redshirt season in 2024 and will have two years remaining.

If you love a good soap opera, Bear Alexander at USC has provided one. Let's be clear: Bear Alexander was a good player for USC last season. He gave the Trojans his best on Alex Grinch's beleaguered defensive unit.

The former five-star prospect did not start any of the Trojans' first three games but did play significant snaps against LSU and Michigan.

USC football is losing defensive tackle Bear Alexander, who is redshirting after playing a small role in the Trojans' loss to Michigan.

USC coach Lincoln Riley says Alexander is a key contributor, and improving, and that he likes his defensive line play, brushing off social media comments as emotions running high after a loss.

Alexander has seen his role reduced this season and will now sit out the rest of the season to retain a year of eligibility ahead of a transfer out of the program.