UCLA’s football recruiting team, tightly connected to the West Coast, features several familiar faces to head coach Bob Chesney.
The latest five additions, announced on Wednesday, join Chesney from James Madison and include Nathan Applebaum, Christos Argis, Trey Lane, Reid Horner, and Michael Moriarty. Three others, JR Moala from Oregon, Deontray Cooper from Arizona, and Nick Soto from California, also have past ties to prominent programs in the former Pac-12.
They will be working alongside new general manager Darick Eley and returning recruiting staff members Steven Price, Marshawn Frillou, and J.D. Lake.
This recruiting team has assembled a transfer class currently ranked No. 11 in the nation according to On3.com.
UCLA’s Recruiting Strategy
“Elite scouting, recruiting, and talent evaluation are fundamental for building a championship-level football program,” Chesney stated.
He emphasized that the front office and coaching staff are on the same page regarding the unique student-athletes they want in the UCLA program. “This recruiting group brings immense knowledge, valuable connections, and an unbeatable work ethic that will aid us in identifying the next batch of Bruins talent,” he added.
As for the transfer class, it has expanded to 43 players, featuring two four-star transfers and six former four-star high school freshmen. The Bruins have secured 10 offensive linemen, nine defensive linemen, and six wide receivers.
Notably, six of the offensive linemen have started in 10 or more games at the FBS level, providing a robust experience pool for Chesney’s inaugural season.
