UCLA football recruiting accelerates before Bob Chesney’s first game

May 7, 2026

It’s essential to stay updated. You may want to keep an eye on your preferred job platforms.

If you’re not careful, you might overlook the latest high school talent pledged to the new UCLA football coach, Bob Chesney.

In a mere four days last week, the Bruins secured seven commitments. Following the team’s spring game on Saturday, Chesney chuckled when a reporter joked about someone making a commitment every few minutes.

“We just had another guy on the field,” Chesney said, responding with a grin. “So, you’re right.”

However, the recruiting process isn’t done yet.

On Wednesday, edge rusher God’s Choice Eboigbodin announced his commitment, bringing the total to 17 recruits and positioning the class at No. 11 nationally according to Rivals.com.

This all happened before any official visits took place or before Chesney coached his first game, indicating a solid belief in his direction.

“He said he was building something special, and honestly, I see it happening,” shared JuJu Johnson, a standout cornerback from Long Beach Poly High School.

Johnson, currently the top-rated recruit for the Bruins, is among eight four-star players who have committed to UCLA—more than the total commitments from the last four recruiting classes combined.

Chesney’s early success in recruiting bears a resemblance to what his predecessor, Jim Mora, achieved upon arriving in 2011. There’s a sense of hope that UCLA can bounce back from periods of subpar talent acquisition, especially compared to previous coaches Chip Kelly and Deshaun Foster.

“People are asking, ‘How is UCLA doing this?'” Greg Biggins, a national recruiting analyst, commented. “UCLA’s historical strength in recruiting is evident, especially since they’ve revitalized themselves under a dynamic and positive head coach.”

Chesney explained that he’s not focused on just pitching recruits but instead showcasing what the team has to offer. Prospective players are attracted to the high-energy and competitive nature of their practices.

“It’s a very intense and passionate environment, full of competition,” Chesney noted. “It’s not for everybody, which is exactly why we seek out those who thrive in that atmosphere.”

This week, former UCLA All-American Maurice Jones-Drew saw his son Deuce commit to the school. He remarked that Chesney’s vibrant coaching style reminds him of Rams coach Sean McVay, in the way he motivates a team.

Jones-Drew mentioned, “I wouldn’t say he’s exactly like Sean, but they both share similar approaches and engagement with the players.”

Of course, recruits are not making this choice without some incentives. Biggins pointed out that UCLA is tactfully setting aside the resources needed to attract top-tier talent.

“I don’t want to disrespect UCLA, but players might take a financial hit to go to schools like Notre Dame or Ohio State,” he stated. “But UCLA has beaten out several schools that are offering substantial incentives to secure commitments.”

Khalil Terry, a four-star safety from Tustin High School, opted for the Bruins over prestigious rivals like Notre Dame and Oklahoma, after being convinced by Chesney that UCLA was the best fit. The university’s low acceptance rate and its reputation as a top public institution resonate with many recruits.

“Honestly, it’s unbelievable how this all turned around so quickly,” Terry reflected about the recruiting class. “It’s incredible to see how much progress we’ve made in just a week.”

Nonetheless, UCLA is still trailing behind competitors. USC, after introducing a strong recruiting class last year, is currently ranked No. 4 nationally and leads the Big Ten, while UCLA is sitting in fourth place within the conference.

One aspect to consider with UCLA’s current class is the inclusion of seven players from out of state, who are often more likely to change their minds before signing day. Last year, five four-stars from out of state withdrew their commitments.

“As the year progresses, local schools will inevitably start vying for these players, especially if they’re succeeding while UCLA is not,” Biggins commented. “Managing out-of-state recruits can be a challenge.”

However, each new recruit has unique reasons for their choice. One out-of-state player, Jackson Roper, mentioned he was attracted to the Bruins’ potential for growth rather than joining an already successful program.

“I wanted to help build something from the ground up,” said Roper, a four-star offensive lineman from Inglewood, Colo. “I’ve always chosen paths that are much less traveled, and it has brought success, so I’m ready for this challenge.”

Chesney’s recruitment of Roper was surprisingly influenced by Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham, who encouraged recruits to list their non-negotiable criteria. Roper wanted a strong fit and a sense of community, both of which UCLA fulfilled.

“From day one, the fit at UCLA was apparent,” Roper expressed. “The supportive environment, inside the program and among the coaching staff, is clear. There’s definitely nowhere to go but up from here, and I’m eager to contribute in any way necessary.”

Name/Position/Size/School/Rating

Kane Brackney/LB/6-2, 230/Bixby/3 stars

Mike Davis Jr./LB/6-1, 215/Mater Dei/3 stars

Godschoice Eboigbodin/Edge/6-5, 235/JSerra/3 stars

Zach Firs/TE/6-5, 220/Arbor View/4 stars

Michael Farinas/WR/5-8, 160/Chaparral/3 stars

Jayshon Gibson/RB/5-10, 188/Richland/3 stars

Jackson Hill/OL/6-6, 300/Chaminade/3 stars

JuJu Johnson/CB/5-10, 160/Long Beach Poly/4 stars

Duce Jones-Drew/RB/5-8, 180/De La Salle/3 stars

Rob Larson/WR/6-2, 185/Folsom/3 stars

Colton McKibben/LB/6-3, 215/Carlsbad/4 stars