USC receiver Steven Mitchell has had a standout spring

USC receiver Steven Mitchell said he has been able to excel this spring because he stopped thinking about injuries that slowed or sidelined him the last two seasons.

“My physicality has really improved and that’s what helped me come out here with more confidence,” Mitchell said after practice Tuesday.

The third-year sophomore was slowed during training camp last season because of a groin injury. He was sidelined before his freshman season after knee surgery.

Mitchell, 5-foot-10 and listed at 185 pounds, said he gained 10 pounds in the offseason.

“I like to elude the defenders, to go around them with speed, but now I will bring more factors with my strength,” he said.

Mitchell has had numerous outstanding receptions this spring.

Coach Steve Sarkisian said he “has the chance to become a really special player.”

Questions about USC? Email me at LNThiry@gmail.com or tweet @LindseyThiry and I will respond to select messages in a weekly USC Now mailbag.