USC defensive lineman Leonard Williams could be difficult to replace

The USC defensive line has a space to fill after junior Leonard Williams announced he will make himself available for the 2015 NFL draft.

Starting tackle Delvon Simmons and nose tackle Antwaun Woods are expected to return.

Claude Pelon, who rotated with Simmons at tackle, said he could “possibly” play in Williams’ position at end.

Pelon said the transition would “not be difficult at all,” adding that Williams’ departure would make the group compete.

“We just go out there everyday and put in the work and just live up to the standards,” he said.

The Trojans also return Greg Townsend Jr. and Kenny Bigelow, who was sidelined this season as he recovered from knee surgery.

Three linemen from the 2015 recruiting class have committed to USC, including Fresno Clovis North’s Jacob Daniel, Los Angeles Loyola’s Christian Rector and Henderson (Nev.) Liberty’s Noah Jefferson.

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