Incoming USC Freshman WR Steven Mitchell out for the year

Off season injuries continue to ping USC.

Mitchell's injury was in a non-contact voluntary workout. It happens but it doesn't make it easier to swallow.

Mitchell, from Mission Hills Alemany High, was reportedly running a pass pattern when the incident occurred.

"Mitchell was running a deep route, guarded by freshman defensive back Leon McQuay, when he planted his right leg in the turf to turn for the catch," wrote Lindsey Thiry of Scout.com. "His knee buckled, twisting awkwardly. Mitchell spun and went down on his back -- immediately grabbing his knee."

NCAA rules prohibit training staff from attending voluntary workouts. Thiry reported that while Mitchell screamed in pain, quarterback Max Browne ran for help. The training staff arrived and carted Mitchell from the field.

This leaves USC with just five scholarship receivers as they head into fall camp.

That is thin when you consider that less severe injuries are sure to rise their ugly head as the season progresses. It will affect practices and game planning.

Just another challenge that the program has to face...