Walker Ashley Could Be Done at USC

Freshman defensive tackle Walker Ashley, who picked USC over the Gophers, is considered a "long shot" to be academically certified by the NCAA Clearinghouse, according to the Los Angeles Daily News. Under NCAA rules, Ashley, a prep All-American from Eden Prairie, will be allowed to practice for two weeks without Clearinghouse approval. If he does not get certification, he cannot attend school and must sit out the season.

Walker Ashley was expected to add depth to the defensive tackle spot, which is the Trojans' biggest question mark following the departure of All-Americans Shaun Cody and Mike Patterson and the recently departed Emmanual Wright, who entered the NFL's supplemental draft.

Ashley was considered the state's top prospect and was named Star Tribune Metro Player of the Year. Ashley, who led the Eagles to a 10-1 record this season, picked the Trojans over Minnesota, Ohio State, Penn State and Oklahoma. Ashley played every position on the defensive line and led the Eagles in sacks. He was also an All-Metro first-team pick last season.

Ashley is the son of former Minnesota Viking and Penn State Nittany Lion Walker Lee Ashley.

There had been some talk that Ashley might want to play closer to home and would consider playing for the Gophers.