UCLA’s football program is dramatically transforming, fueled by second-year head coach DeShaun Foster’s bold approach to the transfer portal. With a focus on revitalizing the team’s struggling rushing attack, Foster has landed standout running back Jaivian “Jet” Thomas from Cal, alongside six other top-50 California recruits from the 2023 class.
This infusion of talent promises to elevate UCLA’s 2025 roster, and with Foster’s no-nonsense mentality, the Bruins are primed to make a statement in the Big Ten. The excitement surrounding these moves signals the start of a new era for UCLA football.
UCLA’s 2025 Transfer Portal Power Play
The winds of change are blowing through Westwood. UCLA’s football program, once struggling in the rushing department, has been reborn through a daring transfer portal strategy that has fans buzzing with excitement. Second-year head coach DeShaun Foster isn’t just dipping his toes in the transfer waters—he’s diving headfirst, starting with landing Cal’s explosive running back Jaivian Thomas.
But “Jet” Thomas isn’t flying solo to UCLA. In a move that has sent shockwaves through college football, he’s joined by six other top-50 California recruits from the 2023 class who’ve chosen to wear Bruin blue and gold. This influx of talent couldn’t come at a better time for a program that limped to a Big Ten-worst 86.6 rushing yards per game last season.
UCLA’s 2025 Roster Gets a Major Boost with Jaivian Thomas and 7 Top California Recruits
Thomas was nothing short of electric at Cal last season. The young tailback carved up defenses for 623 yards on just 100 carries—a blistering 6.3 yards per attempt—while finding the end zone seven times. He also showed versatility by adding 11 catches for 91 yards through the air. Cal fans still talk about his breakout moment against San Diego State, where he announced his arrival with a stunning 169-yard performance in his first collegiate start.
BREAKING: Cal transfer RB Jaivian Thomas has Committed to UCLA, he tells @on3sports
He led the Golden Bears last year with 626 rushing yards and 7 TDs (6.3 YPC)
Was the Top Available RB in the Portalhttps://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7q pic.twitter.com/G80AopgEjd
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) April 25, 2025
When 247Sports ranked Thomas as the No. 11 overall transfer running back, they merely confirmed what many football insiders already knew—UCLA had landed a gem. For Bruin faithful who’ve endured years of inconsistent ground attacks, Thomas represents hope in human form.
7 of California’s top 50 recruits from the 2023 class are now part of ucla’s 2025 roster 👀👀.
Foster wasn’t playing when he said he was bringing em home.@UCLAFootball 🐻🐻🐻🐻#bruins #ucla 4’s up
Home grown !!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/NOL5tnhczU— 4’s up forever (@JesseGarciasae1) April 24, 2025
The excitement around UCLA’s transfer haul resonates deeply with fans. One supporter jubilantly said, ” Seven of California’s top 50 recruits from the 2023 class are now part of UCLA’s 2025 roster 👀👀. Foster wasn’t playing when he said he was bringing em home.” This isn’t just roster-building—it’s a homecoming for California’s football talent, exactly as Foster promised.
Foster’s No-Excuses Approach to Program Building
There’s something refreshingly direct about Foster’s philosophy. “We’re going to be able to reload,” he stated, bringing a professional mindset to college athletics. No talk of rebuilding years or patience—just results.
Foster’s NFL background shines through in how he approaches competition. “When I was in the NFL, they drafted a running back every year. I was at UCLA as a running back every year, and they recruited more running backs to come here. So, this is a competition sport for coaches, players, everybody,” he explained.
His actions match his words. After offensive struggles last season, Foster didn’t hesitate to replace offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy and bring in nine new assistants. Beyond Thomas, he’s welcomed 20 transfers and 17 high school recruits, including former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava—another statement acquisition.
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As summer workouts begin in Westwood, a palpable sense of possibility surrounds UCLA football. With Thomas ready to revitalize the ground game and California’s premier talent filling the roster, the 2025 Bruins aren’t just looking to compete—they’re looking to make a statement in the Big Ten. Foster’s transfer portal power play might be the beginning of UCLA’s football renaissance.
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