This past year, Peterson was USC's third string running back behind Woody Marks and Quinten Joyner. While Marks is off to the NFL and Joyner transferred to Texas Tech, USC added multiple other running backs this offseason, including New Mexico's Eli Sanders, who rushed for over 1,000 yards last season.

Howell was expected to play a major role for next season's Trojan team, which will likely open the campaign without Juju Watkins in November.

It really plays on your ability to compartmentalize,” said Staley, adding that she’s already talking with potential transfers and their reps.