The uncertainty around UCLA football has reached new levels following the dismissal of head coach DeShaun Foster. While the Bruins prepare to reset their program’s direction, the fallout has already started on the recruiting trail. Multiple members of the future recruiting classes have backed away from their pledges, and the wave of decommitments may just be getting started.
Below is a breakdown of the key recruits who have reopened their recruitment and what it means for the Bruins moving forward.
Johnnie Jones (OT)
UCLA’s highest-rated offensive line commit, four-star tackle Johnnie Jones, was the first major domino to fall. The 6’6”, 300-pound prospect from De La Salle cited instability in the program after Foster’s firing as a reason for the decommitment. He had previously been committed since May 15.
Anthony Jones (DL)
Another big loss came when four-star defensive lineman Anthony Jones announced his decision to decommit. The Crean Lutheran standout had been one of UCLA’s cornerstone defensive recruits, and his departure leaves a noticeable hole in the 2025 class.
David Schwerzel (DL)
Three-star defensive lineman David Schwerzel from Seattle’s O’Dea High School also joined the list of departures, according to ON3. While not as highly ranked as Jones, Schwerzel provided needed depth on the defensive line and was considered a developmental piece with upside.
Yahya Gaad (EDGE)
Tennessee edge rusher Yahya Gaad backed off his commitment shortly after Foster’s exit. Gaad had been recruited as a versatile defender who could fit multiple roles in UCLA’s front seven. His decommitment further weakens the defensive class.
Ramzak Fruean (LB)
Linebacker Ramzak Fruean of Spanaway Lake (WA) announced his decommitment. Fruean’s departure leaves the Bruins thin at linebacker depth in the 2026 cycle, a spot they had worked to solidify in recent months.
Demaje Riley (WR, 2027)
Looking ahead, even UCLA’s 2027 class has also been hit. Wideout Demaje Riley, a rising prospect from Tulare Union (CA), reopened his recruitment in light of the instability. While 2027 is still years away, Riley was viewed as a building block for the future.
Bottom Line
UCLA is facing a recruiting crisis while they are in the middle of their season. With Foster gone and no permanent replacement yet not only are the Bruins looking at a rough 2025, but a potentially worse 2026 and 2027 outlook as well. Unless UCLA stabilizes quickly, this wave of decommitments could worsen the future for the Bruins.
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