Who is ucla football coach

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: The UCLA football head coach is DeShaun Foster, who was appointed on February 12, 2024, succeeding Chip Kelly. Foster, a former UCLA running back and NFL player, previously served as the team's running backs coach and associate head coach.

Key Facts

DeShaun Foster was named head coach on February 12, 2024
Foster played running back at UCLA from 1998-2001, rushing for 3,194 yards
He was the 34th overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers
Foster previously served as UCLA's running backs coach from 2017-2023
He replaced Chip Kelly, who left to become offensive coordinator at Ohio State

Overview

The UCLA Bruins football program represents the University of California, Los Angeles in NCAA Division I FBS competition as a member of the Big Ten Conference. Founded in 1919, the program has established itself as one of the most storied in college football history, producing numerous NFL stars, Heisman Trophy winners, and national championships. The head coach position at UCLA carries significant prestige and responsibility, overseeing a program with rich tradition and high expectations in one of the nation's most competitive athletic conferences.

DeShaun Foster's appointment as head coach in February 2024 marked a significant moment in UCLA football history. The 44-year-old former Bruins star became the program's 19th head coach, bringing both continuity and fresh energy to the position. His hiring followed Chip Kelly's departure after six seasons, during which UCLA compiled a 35-34 record. Foster's deep connections to the program and understanding of UCLA's unique position in the Los Angeles sports landscape positioned him as an ideal candidate to lead the Bruins into their new era in the Big Ten Conference.

How It Works

The UCLA head coach oversees all aspects of the football program, from recruiting and player development to game strategy and staff management.

Recruiting and Talent Development: The head coach leads UCLA's recruiting efforts, targeting top high school prospects nationally while maintaining strong connections in talent-rich California. Foster's immediate focus includes building relationships with Southern California recruits and adapting to Big Ten recruiting territories. The 2024 recruiting class ranked in the top 40 nationally, with particular emphasis on offensive skill positions.
Program Leadership and Culture: Foster establishes the program's culture, emphasizing academic achievement, player development, and competitive excellence. His approach combines modern training methods with traditional values, focusing on developing well-rounded student-athletes. The coaching staff includes experienced coordinators and position coaches who implement Foster's vision throughout the program.
Game Planning and Strategy: While delegating specific responsibilities to coordinators, Foster maintains final authority over offensive and defensive schemes. His offensive philosophy emphasizes balanced attack with strong running game fundamentals, reflecting his background as a running back. Defensive strategy adapts to Big Ten opponents while maintaining the athleticism needed to compete against diverse offensive systems.
Administrative and Media Responsibilities: Beyond football operations, the head coach manages budget oversight, compliance with NCAA regulations, and represents UCLA in media engagements and public appearances. Foster's media presence focuses on building excitement around the program while maintaining realistic expectations during the transition period to Big Ten competition.

Key Comparisons

Feature	DeShaun Foster (Current Coach)	Chip Kelly (Previous Coach)
Coaching Background	UCLA alum, NFL playing experience, promoted from within program	Successful college head coach at Oregon, NFL head coaching experience
Offensive Philosophy	Balanced attack with emphasis on running game and play-action	Up-tempo spread offense with emphasis on pace and space
Recruiting Approach	Strong focus on California talent, personal connections with recruits	National recruiting approach with emphasis on speed and system fit
Program Tenure	First season as head coach in 2024	Six seasons (2018-2023) with 35-34 overall record
Conference Transition	Leading program into first Big Ten season in 2024	Coached in Pac-12 Conference throughout tenure

Why It Matters

Program Stability and Identity: Foster's hiring provides continuity during a critical transition period as UCLA moves to the Big Ten Conference. His understanding of UCLA's culture and history helps maintain program identity while adapting to new competitive challenges. The appointment of an alum as head coach strengthens connections with former players and enhances recruiting narratives about program legacy.
Recruiting Impact in Key Markets: Foster's Southern California roots and UCLA playing experience enhance recruiting efforts in talent-rich regions. His ability to connect with local prospects could help UCLA maintain strong recruiting classes despite increased competition from Big Ten programs expanding their West Coast presence. The 2024 recruiting class included several four-star prospects from California high schools.
Competitive Positioning in New Conference: Foster's leadership will determine how quickly UCLA adapts to Big Ten competition, which features different styles of play and travel demands. Success in the new conference could elevate UCLA's national profile and revenue generation through media rights and postseason opportunities. The program's performance under Foster will influence perceptions of West Coast football in the expanded Big Ten.

Looking forward, DeShaun Foster's tenure represents both opportunity and challenge as he guides UCLA football through unprecedented conference realignment. His success will depend on adapting traditional West Coast football strengths to Big Ten competition while maintaining the program's identity and recruiting advantages. The 2024 season serves as a foundation for long-term competitiveness, with Foster's player development approach and strategic adaptability likely determining whether UCLA can establish itself as a consistent contender in its new conference home. As college football continues to evolve with conference expansion and changing competitive landscapes, Foster's leadership will shape UCLA's position in the sport's future structure.