On Saturday morning, four-star edge rusher Tobi Haastrup from Mayde Creek High School (TX) announced that he had received a scholarship offer from the USC Trojans. This offer is the latest in a string of opportunities for Haastrup, who made his football debut just under a month ago during his team’s 18-14 win over Fort Bend Travis (TX). In just three weeks, the former track star has garnered 20 scholarship offers from top programs across the country, including Florida State, LSU, Tennessee, Texas A&M, and many more.
Despite his limited experience on the football field, Haastrup is already ranked as the No. 276 overall prospect and the No. 21 edge rusher in the nation, according to 247Sports Composite rankings. Reflecting on his athletic journey, Haastrup shared with 247Sports, “I grew up in London, where football means soccer. I always played soccer and ran track, which were my passions. When I got to high school, I shifted my focus to track after leaving soccer in middle school. But as I got bigger in my sophomore year, people started asking if I would consider football.”
Initially unsure about trying football, Haastrup said it was his track coach, who also served as the defensive end coach, that convinced him to give the sport a shot. “He told me to trust him and believe in the abilities God gave me—my size, speed, intelligence, and power. After my first game, I’m just thankful to God for everything. It’s by His glory that I’m able to do what I do.”
In his first three games for Mayde Creek, Haastrup has already made an impact with nine sacks and eight tackles for loss, displaying impressive speed, size, and athleticism. Standing at 6’4″ and 235 pounds, he has clocked a 10.71-second time in the 100-meter dash and thrown the shot put over 52 feet. These rare physical gifts have quickly translated into success on the football field, despite his late start in the sport.
According to Greg Powers of Dave Campbell’s Texas Football, “This kid’s athleticism is off the charts, and college scouts are taking notice. In just one week, Haastrup picked up 16 offers.” USC head coach Lincoln Riley and defensive line coach Eric Henderson are hoping to make a strong impression on Haastrup as they continue to build their 2025 recruiting class. Although he’s still learning the game, Haastrup’s raw potential makes him one of the most exciting prospects in the country.