McKnight still finding his role

Joe McKnight has shown only flashes of the speed and moves that made him one of the nation’s most highly prized recruits.

But after less than two weeks of practice, it is clear to USC teammates and coaches that the freshman running back from Louisiana will be an impact player this season.

“We know he’s a great player and what he’s capable of doing,” quarterback John David Booty said. “Now he’s just got to go do it on Saturdays.”

On Tuesday, USC made McKnight available to the media for the first time during training camp. He spoke with confidence and humility about the transition from high school to college football and how he expects to fit it on a team that is projected to contend for the national title.

“I’m kind of like feeling my way at this point, trying to find my role on the team,” he said.

McKnight, 6 feet, 180 pounds, has been compared to Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush, especially as a receiver and multipurpose threat.

McKnight said that he did not yet consider himself an every-down back and that he was still learning the offense.

“I need to get it down like a second nature,” he said.

During Sunday’s scrimmage at the Coliseum, McKnight had an impressive run through the interior of the line and also returned a punt for a touchdown.

“It was a big confidence boost,” he said of the return. “I figure if I can return a punt on this team, I feel like I can do it to any team in the Pac-10. But I had good blocks on that, so you can’t give all the credit to me.”

Asked what has been the most difficult part of his transition to USC, McKnight said, “trying to block [linebacker] Brian Cushing.”

McKnight remains unconcerned about joining a team that had seven returning tailbacks and two other incoming freshmen. He is enjoying the camaraderie and advantages that come with being a part of a 10-deep position group on the practice field.

“We get extra rest, so we’re having fun with it,” he said.

McKnight, however, acknowledged speculation that one or more tailbacks might transfer. McKnight said he would not be one of them.

“I’m not going to transfer no matter what the circumstances,” he said.

All-American left tackle Sam Baker has a cracked rib and is expected to sit out the rest of the week.

“[Monday’s] practice was the first one I missed in four years,” said Baker, a fifth-year senior. “I didn’t like the feeling.”

Baker is the second starting tackle forced to the sidelines because of injury.

Drew Radovich, who was projected to start on the right side, has not practiced during training camp because of a back problem. Sophomore Charles Brown has worked in his place and is on track to start the Sept. 1 opener against Idaho.

Sophomore Thomas Herring also is working with the first unit.

“We’re forcing those guys to play like starters,” Coach Pete Carroll said. “I don’t mind Sam getting another day or so here if that’s what it takes to get these guys the conscience that it takes to play with the other guys and hold up their end of it.”

The receiving corps has been depleted by injuries, so quarterback Garrett Green and walk-on safety Brent Yoshida worked at the position.

Green is the No. 4 quarterback and has played safety and on special teams.

“He’s been a utility guy since the day he walked on our practice field,” Carroll said. “Right now, with a couple guys banged up, there’s a good opportunity for him to get some reps.”

Redshirt freshman Jamere Holland returned after sitting out several days because of a concussion, but sophomore Travon Patterson is recovering form a toe injury and sophomore Vidal Hazelton was held out again because of a groin strain.

Fullback Stanley Havili sat out most of practice after he strained his neck. He said he would work out today.

gary.klein@latimes.com