Clay Helton hiring gets enthusiastic response from current, former and future Trojans

USC announced Monday that Clay Helton has been hired as head football coach after going 5-2 in the role on an interim basis since Steve Sarkisian was fired in October.

Reaction to Helton’s permanent hiring was met with enthusiasm from the current Trojan players.

Former Trojans Coach Pete Carroll, now with the Seattle Seahawks, was quick with a positive response to the news.

Former Trojan players were equally upbeat.

Several players who have committed to USC’s 2016 recruiting class -- including receiver Josh Imatorbhebhe from North Gwinnett High in Suwanee, Ga., Mater Dei offensive lineman Frank Martin, Glendora quarterback Matt Fink and Gardena Serra defensive back C.J. Pollard -- also reacted to the hiring of Helton on social media.

Imatorbhebhe made an unofficial and official visit to USC last week and signed a financial-aid agreement. He will enroll in January.

North Torrance linebacker Mique Juarez, who decommitted from USC amidst the firing of Steve Sarkisian, wrote, “Congrats to Clay Helton, he deserves it!”