Leinart Says He Is Staying

Amid continuing speculation that he might turn pro rather than complete his final season at USC, quarterback Matt Leinart said Tuesday that he did not intend to make himself available for the NFL’s supplemental draft.

Leinart, who is recovering from elbow surgery, observed and helped guide teammates for two rain-drenched hours as the Trojans began spring practice.

Asked if there was any way he would make himself available for a supplemental draft, Leinart said, “No. I don’t know what all that talk has been.”

Leinart said he would probably start throwing in May.

Redshirt sophomore John David Booty took the majority of snaps Tuesday and redshirt freshman Rocky Hinds got extensive work during a storm that featured thunder and lightning.

“I feel like my old self again, or at least I did today as far as getting guys in and out of the huddle,” said Booty, who has switched from No. 17 to No. 10. “I felt like I could speak with my voice a little louder because I was actually the leader out there.”

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Coach Pete Carroll said redshirt sophomore running back Desmond Reed would not participate in spring drills.

“He’s going to be working on his schoolwork,” Carroll said.

Running back LenDale White, tight end Dominique Byrd and defensive lineman Manuel Wright aren’t participating because of academic issues.

Running back Reggie Bush, who had arthroscopic shoulder surgery, took part in non-contact drills. Freshman Michael Coleman and redshirt sophomore Chauncey Washington both broke off impressive runs during team drills.

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Incoming freshman quarterback Mark Sanchez and linebacker Luthur Brown, who will enroll in the fall, attended practice.