UPDATE: Major coaching changes are sending shockwaves through college football recruiting as the Cal Bears, Stanford Cardinal, and UCLA Bruins navigate turbulent waters. With the recent firing of head coach Justin Wilcox on November 26, 2023, Cal’s recruiting landscape is shifting dramatically, leaving commitments in jeopardy.
The Bears, facing uncertainty after Wilcox’s departure, have seen several national commitments open their recruitments. Notably, Broncs Baker, a linebacker from Utah, has indicated he may explore other options, although the retention of Cal’s defensive staff might sway his decision. Meanwhile, commitments from the class of 2026 are in a state of flux. Colorado linebacker Jaxon Pyatt declared, “I’m still committed to Cal,” while Hawaii quarterback Nainoa Lopes expressed gratitude towards Wilcox, stating, “I plan to be in Berkeley in January ready to get to work.”
However, uncertainty looms for others. Receiver Tyree Sams from Fresno is weighing his options, stating, “I like the staff up there. I’m not sure what I’ll do.” Similarly, Hawaii offensive lineman Esaiah Wong described the news as a “shocker” but reassured that it won’t affect his commitment.
In contrast, the Stanford Cardinal are preparing for a new chapter as they look for a permanent head coach after their recent victory against Cal. Interim coach Frank Reich has provided a glimmer of hope, but the search for a new leader is imminent. The Cardinal are also eyeing a potential quarterback recruit, Michael Mitchell Jr., a local three-star talent who recently de-committed from Vanderbilt. Mitchell attended Stanford’s game against Cal and is expected to sign with the Cardinal soon after a coaching announcement.
On the other hand, the UCLA Bruins are rebounding from their coaching shakeup, currently positioned in the top 50 of the 2026 recruiting rankings. Following the firing of DeShaun Foster, UCLA has secured four new commitments in just one week, including a significant re-commitment from interior lineman Cooper Javorsky. His return solidifies the Bruins’ efforts to rebuild their class after losing several recruits.
As rivalry weekend unfolds, elite prospects are flocking to campuses across the West Coast. Arizona State is set to host top recruits during the Territorial Cup, while Washington prepares to welcome coveted quarterbacks Sione Kaho and Jamar Howard. In a high-stakes environment, all eyes will be on which teams can leverage these coaching changes to secure critical commitments.
The recruiting landscape remains volatile, with numerous players re-evaluating their options and new coaching strategies in play. As the search for stability continues, the impact on each program’s future will be profound. Fans and recruits alike are anxiously awaiting the next moves in this unfolding drama, making it clear that this recruiting season will be one for the books.
