UCLA Quarterback Faces Serious Charges

Things aren’t going well for UCLA, especially not for backup quarterback Pierce Clarkson.

Last Friday, he was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, as reported by NBC Los Angeles.

In response, UCLA took immediate action. They announced, “We are aware of the charges against Pierce Clarkson, who has been suspended indefinitely from all team activities until the legal proceedings are resolved.”

The statement included information that the situation was being evaluated by the UCLA Student Conduct Bureau, which will determine any additional actions based on university policies.

At 21, Clarkson was arrested by the Southwest division of the Los Angeles Police Department, with bail set at $30,000.

He was released later that evening and has a court date scheduled for October 3rd.

Originally from Bellflower, California, Clarkson spent two seasons at Ole Miss before coming to UCLA for the 2025-26 season.

So far, he hasn’t played in any games this season.

It’s worth noting that he’s the son of Steve Clarkson, a prominent quarterback coach.

As for the team, UCLA is struggling with an 0-2 start, having lost to both Utah and UNLV, with the scores being 43-10 and 30-23, respectively. The Bruins had high hopes with the arrival of quarterback Nicoia Mareava.

After transferring from Tennessee, Iamaleava, who is starting, has only managed to throw for 391 yards and two touchdowns, along with two interceptions, which is frustrating for everyone involved. “I know we can do better,” he expressed after the last game.

Clarkson, ranked as a four-star prospect, was behind Iamaleava on the depth chart. In his senior year, he passed for 1,903 yards and 26 touchdowns.

This Friday, UCLA will look to bounce back as they face 1-1 New Mexico at home.