UCLA football enters the 2026 season with renewed optimism under head coach Bob Chesney, following a tumultuous 2025 campaign that saw the dismissal of DeShaun Foster. The program has shown significant improvement in recruiting, with a notable uptick in commitments from both high school prospects and the transfer portal. UCLA’s 2026 recruiting class is ranked No. 25 nationally, bolstered by key additions like four-star safety Tao Johnson and running back Wayne Knight. Additionally, the 2027 class currently ranks No. 11, featuring five-star recruit JuJu Johnson and several four-star athletes. Despite historical struggles in establishing itself as a competitive force in the Big Ten, UCLA’s recent recruiting successes and the leadership of Chesney raise questions about the program’s potential for transformation.
Why It Matters
UCLA’s transition from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten has raised expectations for its football program, which has often lagged behind its basketball and baseball counterparts. Historically, UCLA has struggled to maintain consistent football success, even within the Pac-12, making the current recruiting momentum under Chesney a pivotal moment for the program. Chesney’s previous successes at James Madison and Holy Cross demonstrate his capability to build winning cultures, which could be crucial for UCLA as it seeks to elevate its standing in a more competitive conference. The combination of increased funding, resources, and talent accessibility in college football today could facilitate a quicker turnaround for the Bruins, marking a significant shift in the program’s trajectory.
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