UCLA Backup Quarterback Arrested and Suspended

Pierce Clarkson, a backup quarterback at UCLA, was arrested last week in California on unspecified felony charges, leading to his suspension from the team. This information comes from online records and statements from school officials.

The 21-year-old Clarkson was taken into custody on Friday in Los Angeles. He faces felony charges, according to jail records from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. His bail was set at $30,000, and he was released the following day after posting bond.

While details about the charges remain unclear, the Los Angeles Times has reported that he is suspected of assault with a deadly weapon, though a police spokesperson confirmed that the weapon involved was not a firearm.

The University of California Athletics Department released a statement regarding Clarkson’s situation, noting that he has been suspended indefinitely from all team activities while they await the outcomes of legal proceedings. Further action will depend on the university’s policy and an assessment by the UCLA Student Action Bureau.

Clarkson is in his first season with the Bruins, having previously played for two seasons at Louisville, where he recorded a total of 18 passing yards over five attempts in three games. Before joining UCLA, he was present at Ole Miss in the spring of 2025.

Hailing from Bellflower, California, Clarkson is the son of renowned quarterback coach Steve Clarkson. Notably, he hasn’t yet played for the Bruins this season and is scheduled to return to court next month.