Duece Jones-Drew, child of Maurice Jones-Drew, chooses to attend UCLA

Deuce Jones-Drew Chooses UCLA, Following in His Father’s Footsteps

Maurice Jones-Drew had one bit of advice for his son: play college football anywhere but UCLA.

“I didn’t want anything to go wrong, where he could end up upset with me,” Jones-Drew, who was an All-America running back at UCLA, shared with the California Post on Monday. “I just thought it needed to be his own choice.”

Yet sometimes, it feels like destiny intervenes.

After handling his own recruiting and evaluating various opportunities, high school running back Deuce Jones-Drew chose to follow his father’s legacy by committing to UCLA.

This decision brought a mix of excitement—and a bit of fear—to his father’s heart.

“I’m scared,” the older Jones-Drew admitted.

Deuce joined the growing roster of prospective players by verbally committing to UCLA just a day after attending the team’s spring game at the Rose Bowl. The Bruins now have 16 commits, which includes eight four-star recruits, as they gear up for their first season under new head coach Bob Chesney.

“What’s happening there is exciting, and my son is thrilled to be part of it,” Maurice noted.

Maurice, who is now 41 and a former three-time Pro Bowler with the Jaguars, mentioned that his son has always been a big fan of UCLA, even while growing up in Florida.

Currently a senior at De La Salle High School in the Bay Area, Deuce initially dreamed of attending UCLA last year. However, his father advised him to take his time during the recruiting process. He weighed options including Arizona State, California, Southern Methodist, and Oregon State before making a quiet commitment to UCLA coaches.

Listed as a three-star recruit by a scouting service, Deuce brings more than just a familiar surname; he possesses skills that his father believes could lead him to great success.

“I think we run in similar ways,” Maurice said. “I might weigh a bit more than what they’re reporting for him, but he’s quicker and has better vision. Plus, he’s not afraid to take hits, and his catching ability is stronger than mine. I played in a championship game back in the day, but he’s already had that experience.”

Another interesting parallel is that Deuce will enter UCLA during a transitional period, aiming to help the Bruins bounce back. Maurice played under coach Karl Dorrell in 2003 and helped the team achieve a remarkable comeback season in 2005.

“I contributed to turning things around back then, and he wants to do the same,” Maurice reflected. “It feels like a full circle moment. I mean, I’m definitely feeling older, but it’s pretty amazing.”

As a player, Deuce could potentially break some of the records set by his father, including the 322 rushing yards achieved against Washington in 2004 and the 162 punt return yards against Cal in 2005.

The idea of legacy will bring Maurice back to UCLA games for the 2027 season, where he plans to soak in the experience, much like Miami (Fla.) graduate Michael Irvin, who is known for his entertaining sidelines presence.