L.A. Daily News - USC

By Scott Wolf, Staff Writer

USC tailback Chauncey Washington, who was declared academically ineligible last month, is considering returning to the Trojans next season instead of transferring to another school.

Washington obtained his official release from USC and can transfer to any school, but said he might remain with the Trojans. He's considered UNLV and Mississippi so far and still hasn't ruled out the possibility of transferring, although it appears less likely now.

USC coach Pete Carroll said he would probably talk to Washington later this week about his situation. Under NCAA rules, Washington could return to USC for the fall semester and practice with the team, although he could not play in games.

He was also academically ineligible last season but chose not to practice to concentrate on his classes. Whether Washington transfers or stays at USC, he will sit out next season and have two years of eligibility.

Wright update: The NFL will hold a supplemental draft for former USC defensive tackle Manuel Wright on July 14. Wright has been approached by several teams, including Philadelphia, Cincinnati, Dallas, Atlanta, Miami and Green Bay.

He's scheduled to meet with Bengals coach Marvin Lewis on Friday.

First commit: USC received a verbal commitment from San Pedro offensive lineman Zack Heberer (6-foot-4, 270 pounds). He was also considering Oregon.

Even though the Trojans added junior-college cornerback Mozique McCurtis for the coming season, there is still a possibility that sprinter DeSean Cunningham could join the football team for training camp and attempt to play cornerback.

Cornerback camp: Washington Redskins assistant coach DeWayne Walker, a former USC secondary coach,
will hold a camp for defensive backs on July 2 at Mt. San Antonio College.

The camp is open to high school players between the ages 15-18 and costs $50, which includes lunch and a T-shirt.

College coaches from USC, Michigan and Central Florida will work the camp and counselors include Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs, former UCLA cornerback Matt Ware and former USC cornerbacks Kevin Arbet and Kris Richard. Information: (571) 437-0146.