DeShaun Foster: ​UCLA taps ​former Carolina Panthers man as head coach

NEW DELHI: UCLA, renowned for its rich football legacy, has named former star player and seasoned assistant coach DeShaun Foster as the new head coach. Foster's appointment comes after a comprehensive search that involved evaluating 11 candidates, including several sitting head coaches.
Foster, who recently accepted the role of running backs coach with the Las Vegas Raiders, returns to UCLA, where he had a stellar playing career, earning a spot in the UCLA Hall of Fame.His decade-long tenure at UCLA in various coaching roles, coupled with seven seasons in the NFL, positions him as a formidable choice to lead the Bruins.


"This is a dream come true," said Foster in a statement. "I always envisioned being a Bruin ever since I was young, and now being the head coach at my alma mater is such a surreal feeling, and I'm grateful for this opportunity. The foundation of this program will be built on discipline, respect, and enthusiasm."
Foster's ability to command a room and lead effectively has impressed UCLA officials. The university believes Foster's deep ties to the Los Angeles market, coupled with his emphasis on recruiting and fundraising, aligns with the evolving landscape of college football, marked by name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals.
UCLA's athletic director, Martin Jarmond, expressed confidence in Foster, stating, "We are looking for a coach with integrity, energy, and passion; someone who is a great teacher, who develops young men, is a great recruiter and fully embraces the NIL landscape to help our student-athletes. DeShaun checks all of those boxes and then some. He is a leader of men and a true Bruin."

Foster's rapport with current players played a pivotal role in his selection. Sources revealed that players enthusiastically welcomed the news of his appointment, considering him a connector and leader. With experience working under notable coaches like Kliff Kingsbury, Jim Mora, and Chip Kelly, Foster is seen as a modern CEO coach adept at player identification and development.
The new head coach replaces Chip Kelly, who recently accepted the position of offensive coordinator at Ohio State. Despite an extensive search, UCLA opted for Foster's local experience, credibility within the program, and comprehensive understanding of the campus culture.
Foster's impact as an assistant coach at UCLA is evident in the consistent production of NFL-caliber tailbacks from his running back room. The recent drafts have seen Bruins tailbacks such as Zach Charbonnet, Brittain Brown, Demetric Felton Jr., and Joshua Kelley making their mark in the professional league.
(Inputs from agencies)