The USF Bulls have started summer workouts, and the 2025 season is quickly approaching. With that being said, I’ll be highlighting several players who will be major contributors this fall over the next couple of months. These players will be vital for USF to achieve success on the field in 2025. So, without further ado, let’s get right into the first player profile for USF: linebacker Mac Harris.
2025 USF Player Profile: Mac Harris
- Position: Outside Linebacker
- USF Bulls
- 6’0″ 230 lbs
- Year: 6th
Who is Mac Harris?
Mac Harris was a three-star recruit out of The Villages Charter School in Florida. Known for his versatility, he made his mark as both a hard-hitting defender and a dynamic offensive weapon in high school. As a senior, Harris racked up 86 tackles, four tackles for loss, four interceptions, and four forced fumbles — while also rushing for 790 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Harris was considered under the radar coming out of high school, but he ultimately committed to USF in 2019 over offers from schools such as Appalachian State, FIU, Rutgers, and Western Kentucky. He ranked NO. 75 on ESPN’s list of top safeties in the 2020 class.
Fun fact: he has eight siblings!
Positional Outlook
Mac Harris began his USF career subtly in 2020, playing in seven games and earning two starts as a true freshman. His potential was displayed early, recording eight tackles and an interception against Cincinnati, followed by a seven-tackle game at ECU.
His sophomore season may have been cut short due to injury, but by 2022, Harris had worked his way back into the rotation, seeing action in 11 games. The 2023 season was even better for Mac, posting 33 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, three fumble recoveries, and an interception while making six starts.
Then came the 2024 season. It’s difficult to talk about USF’s 2024 season without mentioning Mac’s name. He started all 13 games and led USF with a career-best 82 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and four sacks. He also forced two fumbles, recovered one (returning it for a touchdown), and added six quarterback hurries and two pass breakups.
Recognized for his accolades, Harris earned First Team All-AAC honors from College Football Network and Third Team All-AAC recognition from Phil Steele.
With nearly 60 games under his belt, he is one of the most experienced defenders in the AAC. Head coach Alex Golesh has built a system that thrives on aggression and speed, both of which Mac Harris embodies perfectly.
Strengths
Without a doubt, Mac displays his grit day in and day out. He’s a sure tackler who thrives in chaos, constantly beating blockers to the spot. In 2024, he had at least five tackles in 12 of 13 games, proving his consistency week after week.
He also brings versatility — capable in pass coverage, effective on the blitz, and smart in diagnosing run fits. His performance against Alabama (seven tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble) was a defining moment that demonstrated his ability to excel against top-tier competition.
More importantly, his presence is felt throughout the program. He’s a poised leader whose energy radiates from the field to the locker room. Mac’s ability to lead both vocally and by example gives USF a significant defensive advantage.
Pathway to Success
Harris has written his own story and paved his way to success, earning his role through persistence and performance. With his starting spot secured and leadership unquestioned, the next step is continuing this great trajectory that he’s on. Consistently in the film room and mentoring new players, Mac is committed to his personal growth and elevating those around him.
Maintaining his 2024 form and having a full, healthy offseason will help Mac continue to shine.
Areas of Improvement & Concern
While Harris is a complete linebacker in most aspects, the next step could be sharpening his lateral agility and playmaking in coverage. By showcasing more fluidity and taking on more coverage responsibility, Mac can enhance his game and increase his NFL stock.
He’s a physical linebacker who thrives especially in short areas, but adding more speed in the open field would help him be even more of a dynamic threat against today’s spread offenses.
Additionally, maintaining his health and durability will be key. Mac has had a long college career; staying on top of his well-being will be important in maintaining his overall production and longevity.
2025 Outlook
Mac Harris enters the 2025 season as one of the top returning linebackers in the AAC and, nonetheless, a force to be reckoned with. As South Florida is continuing to build momentum under Alex Golesh, Harris plays an important role in the Bulls’ pursuit of a conference title.
He’s earned the trust of the coaching staff, the respect of the locker room, and the attention of opponents across the league. Now, he has the chance to continue his collegiate run with another legacy-defining season.
USF fans can count on one thing: wherever the football is, Mac Harris is not far behind.
Discover more from The League Winners
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Mackenzie Neglia
Currently a student at the University of South Florida, raised in a New York football family. Always looking for a new book, coffee shop, and travel spot.