UCLA Fires Football Coach DeShaun Foster Amid 0-3 Start and Chaotic Program Background

Los Angeles – The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has terminated the employment of football coach DeShaun Foster following a disastrous start to the season, resulting in a 0-3 record and an overall coaching tenure of 5-10. This decision comes in the wake of significant defeats, including a 43-10 loss at the hands of Utah and a 35-10 setback against New Mexico.

The decision was announced by Athletic Director Martin Jarmond, who has come under scrutiny for his coaching hires and subsequent firings. Jarmond is now faced with the challenge of hiring a new head coach for the second time in just over two years. He acknowledged that Foster faced immense challenges, particularly regarding the timing of his hiring and the transition UCLA is making to the Big Ten Conference.

Foster expressed his disappointment at not being able to reach a successful outcome during his tenure but emphasized the honor it was to lead the Bruins’ football program. Following his dismissal, the Bruins have already begun to feel immediate repercussions, losing seven recruits from their 2026 class.

The crises within UCLA’s football program extend beyond the recent hires. The athletic department is currently grappling with a financial burden, reporting a staggering $219.55 million deficit over the past six years, necessitating financial support from the larger university. The football program’s struggle to attain success is reflected in its historical records, having not won a conference title since 1998 and last participating in the Rose Bowl in 1997.

Background on Coaching Changes

Foster’s predecessor, Chip Kelly, left UCLA under turbulent circumstances, which included a failure to maintain a consistent performance record, finishing with an alarming record of 5-25 against winning teams. Kelly’s tenure has also been criticized for a lack of successful recruitment from local high schools, which has negatively influenced perceptions of the program’s competitiveness.

Despite the challenges, Foster had managed to assemble a promising recruiting class that included notable talents from Florida, showcasing potential for future success. However, the urgency to hire a new head coach has been highlighted, particularly as the university’s recent affiliation with the Big Ten presents new financial resources that can be leveraged effectively.

Recruiting and Future Prospects

Currently, UCLA ranks 52nd in the 2026 class recruiting, and there is a risk that this rank may decline further if commitments continue to falter in light of the coaching uncertainty. Defensive issues have been a significant concern for the Bruins this season, as their defense has allowed an alarming average of 431 yards per game, placing them last in the Big Ten.

With Chancellor Julio Frenk supporting Jarmond in the search for a new head coach, a committee will likely be formed to ensure a thorough hiring process. The next head coach will be tasked with revitalizing the recruitment efforts, especially in engaging local high school players, which are crucial for restoring UCLA’s standing in collegiate football.

Financial Considerations

The financial aspects of Foster’s termination include a buyout exceeding $5 million. By delaying the dismissal until after December 2, the university could have potentially reduced this financial burden. Foster’s firing is a reflection of ongoing institutional mismanagement that has resulted in dwindling fan attendance and empty stadiums for the Bruins.

Former UCLA head coach Rick Neuheisel has stated the necessity for a recommitment to major college football standards to elevate UCLA’s competitiveness on a national scale. The structural weaknesses within UCLA’s athletic department have seen rival programs, especially USC, successfully attract key personnel from UCLA, further complicating the rebuilding efforts.