USC spring preview: Cornerbacks

USC begins spring practice March 3. We’ll preview each position group before workouts begin.

Cornerbacks

Key departure: Josh Shaw

Key returning players: Senior Kevon Seymour and sophomore Adoree’ Jackson

Departures: Third-year junior Devian Shelton and redshirt freshman Rahshead Johnson

Returning players: Third-year sophomore Chris Hawkins, sophomore Jonathan Lockett and redshirt freshman Lamont Simmons

Outlook: Seymour, who is preparing for his third season as a starter, is the most experienced player in the secondary. Last season, he intercepted one pass and deflected 14.

Jackson replaced Hawkins as a starter five games into the season. He broke up 10 passes and forced a fumble.

Hawkins, who intercepted a pass and deflected three, and Lockett, who played in 13 games on special teams, could contribute as backups and as a nickel back.

Hawkins also might get a look at safety, where he took reps during bowl practices.

Simmons redshirted and practiced on the scout team.

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