Eric Gentry is an American college football linebacker and 2026 NFL Draft prospect who completed his collegiate career with the USC Trojans after beginning at Arizona State University. A native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Gentry attended Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti Catholic High School and was a three-star recruit who played both linebacker and defensive end in high school. He made an immediate impact as a true freshman at Arizona State in 2021, appearing in 12 games, posting 45 tackles and earning consensus Freshman All-America honors before transferring to USC. At USC, he became a key part of the defense across multiple seasons, combining long-range athleticism with playmaking instincts to accumulate significant tackle, tackle for loss and turnover statistics.
Measured at about 6-6 and 225 lbs, Gentry stands out for his rare size and versatility at the linebacker position, attracting attention for his ability to cover space, make tackles downfield and force turnovers. In his final season he posted strong numbers with tackles for loss, sacks and forced fumbles while also overcoming injury setbacks, including a redshirt season due to concussion issues, to finish his career as one of USC’s most dynamic defensive leaders. His combination of length, instincts and production has NFL scouts intrigued about his potential as a versatile defensive contributor at the next level.
