Kennedy Urlacher, the transfer from Notre Dame and son of former Hall Of Fame linebacker Brian Urlacher, could be a huge X-factor for the USC Trojans‘ defense this season. The Trojans already have a starting safety who has first-round NFL draft talent: Kamari Ramsey had 60 tackles, including 5.5 for loss, two sacks, five PBUs and an interception in 11 games last season. He showed his ability to be a dominant safety in every facet possible. He was great in run support, prominent as a ballhawking safety with great football IQ , and noticeable as a strong leader for this defense.

Ramsey is the starter at the free safety position, no question about it. Kennedy Urlacher will try to get his hands on the strong safety position. It will be a competition between him and transfer Bishop Fitzgerald from NC State. Last season Fitzgerald had 55 total tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 8 PBUs, and 3 interceptions.

It will be tough sledding for Urlacher to beat out a redshirt senior with that level of production and experience, but Urlacher is already off to a good start. USC Trojans writer Chris Treviño identified Urlacher as a standout from camp on Day 1.

Urlacher, in his freshman season at Notre Dame last year, saw some action, tallying 12 tackles, 1 for loss and 2 PBUs. Urlacher plays with good instincts, has great closing speed, and is a solid open field tackler. He has one of the best to do it, his father, providing advice whenever needed. If he can build off the flashes of potential he showed last season, Kennedy Urlacher will be a hard player to keep off the field.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Kennedy Urlacher is making an early impression for USC football