UCLA Parts Ways with DeShaun Foster: A Look at the Future of the Bruins Football Program

In a surprising move, UCLA has decided to part ways with head coach DeShaun Foster just two days after an embarrassing loss to New Mexico, which left the Bruins with a disappointing 0-3 record. This decision marks a significant shift for the program, which had high hopes for Foster after he was promoted to head coach less than two years ago.

The Rise and Fall of DeShaun Foster

DeShaun Foster, a former standout running back at UCLA and in the NFL, was brought on as head coach following a promising finish to the previous season. His promotion was met with optimism, especially after the acquisition of highly regarded quarterback Nico Iamaleava, which was expected to rejuvenate the program. However, the start of the 2025 season has been anything but encouraging. The Bruins’ first three games saw them outscored 108-43, raising concerns about the team’s direction and performance.

The final straw for the UCLA administration came after the loss to New Mexico, which occurred in front of a sparsely filled Rose Bowl. Following this defeat, UCLA Athletic Director Martin Jarmond, who had hired Foster, faced mounting criticism regarding his decision-making and the future of the football program.

The Search for a New Head Coach

With Foster’s departure, UCLA is now tasked with finding a new head coach who can revitalize the program, especially as it prepares to compete in the Big Ten Conference. Jarmond will lead the search, although questions remain about the extent of his influence in selecting Foster’s successor.

Potential Candidates

The search for a new head coach is crucial, as UCLA looks to establish a competitive identity in the Big Ten. Here are five candidates who could potentially take the helm:

1. **Tony White (Florida State Defensive Coordinator)**: A UCLA alum, White has garnered attention in coaching searches and previously interviewed for the head coach position before Foster was hired. His success at Florida State could make him an attractive option for UCLA.

2. **Kalani Sitake (BYU Head Coach)**: Sitake has built a solid reputation at BYU, where he has a record of 74-43. Although he would need assurances to leave a stable environment, his familiarity with West Coast recruiting could benefit UCLA.

3. **Tommy Rees (Cleveland Browns Offensive Coordinator)**: A Los Angeles native with deep ties to UCLA, Rees has quickly climbed the coaching ranks. His experience at Notre Dame and Alabama makes him a compelling candidate for a head coaching position.

4. **Spencer Danielson (Boise State Head Coach)**: Danielson has made a name for himself at Boise State, where he led the team to its first College Football Playoff appearance. His Southern California roots may entice him to return to his home state.

5. **Tosh Lupoi (Oregon Defensive Coordinator)**: Known for his recruiting prowess, Lupoi has experience at several top programs, including Alabama. His ability to attract talent could help UCLA regain its competitive edge.

Key Players to Retain

As UCLA transitions to a new coaching staff, retaining key players will be essential for the program’s future success. Foster’s tenure saw significant roster changes, with 30 new transfers joining the team, but the early results have been lackluster. Here are three players that the new coach may want to keep:

– **Nico Iamaleava (Quarterback)**: As a highly touted transfer from Tennessee, Iamaleava was expected to be a game-changer for UCLA. However, he has struggled early in the season, ranking 14th in the Big Ten in passing yards. The next coach will need to assess Iamaleava’s potential and whether he fits into their plans moving forward.

– **Anthony Woods (Running Back)**: Woods has emerged as one of the few bright spots on the team, showing promise with 117 rushing yards and 91 receiving yards so far. His versatility could be a valuable asset for the new coaching staff.

– **Rodrick Pleasant (Cornerback)**: Pleasant has started all three games this season and is known for his speed and athleticism. Retaining him could bolster UCLA’s defensive lineup.

Key Recruits to Keep an Eye On

Foster’s recruitment efforts had begun to bear fruit, with a promising class for 2026. Here are three recruits that the new coaching staff should prioritize:

– **Micah Smith (Offensive Tackle)**: Ranked as the No. 46 player in the ESPN 300, Smith is a crucial piece of the offensive line that UCLA needs to secure. His relationship with the offensive line coach could influence his decision to stay.

– **Carter Gooden (Defensive End)**: Gooden, a highly regarded edge defender from Massachusetts, represents a significant recruiting win for UCLA. His commitment could be vulnerable given the coaching change, making it essential for the new staff to engage with him.

– **David Schwerzel (Defensive Tackle)**: As a top defensive line prospect, Schwerzel’s commitment is critical for UCLA’s future defensive strategy. The program must work hard to retain him amidst the uncertainty.

Conclusion

UCLA’s firing of DeShaun Foster marks a pivotal moment for the Bruins football program. With a new coach on the horizon, the university will need to act quickly to stabilize the team and retain key players and recruits. The upcoming decisions will be crucial as UCLA seeks to carve out its identity in the competitive landscape of the Big Ten.

Key Facts

– DeShaun Foster was fired on September 14, 2025, after an 0-3 start.
– The Bruins were outscored 108-43 in their first three games of the season.
– Athletic Director Martin Jarmond will lead the search for a new head coach.
– Key players to retain include QB Nico Iamaleava, RB Anthony Woods, and CB Rodrick Pleasant.
– Promising recruits include OT Micah Smith, DE Carter Gooden, and DT David Schwerzel.

Source: www.espn.com