UCLA head coach DeShaun Foster is looking to spark a turnaround for the Bruins — and he’s turning to an NFL superstar as a source of motivation. With transfer quarterback Nico Iamaleava now under center, Foster has tapped into the transfer portal to strengthen the wide receiver corps. But with years of constant offensive changes behind them, Foster knows his receivers need to adapt fast.
And for that lesson, he points to none other than Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl-winning quarterback Jalen Hurts.
“That’s part of ball, you know? Systems change,” Foster said during Wednesday’s media availability. “I believe Jalen Hurts has been in five different offenses all the way through. So, if you make it to be an excuse, it’ll be an excuse. But if it’s not, it’s not.”
Hurts’ journey is proof that thriving in multiple systems is possible. In his fifth NFL season, he guided the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory, throwing for 2,903 yards and 18 touchdowns while adding 14 rushing scores on 630 yards. Iamaleava’s dual-threat style mirrors Hurts, and Foster is betting that adaptability will be a cornerstone of their success.
The Bruins are now under their third offensive system in as many seasons, with new offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri bringing a fresh approach. For Iamaleava, that means learning a new playbook while building chemistry with a receiving unit that’s seen plenty of turnover. On paper, UCLA’s receiver room might not match what Iamaleava had at Tennessee — but in camp, Foster says the group is stepping up.
“I’m excited about that whole room,” Foster said. “Mikey [Matthews] can do a lot. [Ezavier Staples] is having a great spring-to-summer-to-fall. Titus [Mokiao-Atimalala] is back and getting up to speed. They’ve all worked hard this offseason to be ready.”
Despite finishing 5–7 in their first Big Ten season, UCLA is approaching 2025 with championship ambitions. Few national pundits see them as title contenders, but that hasn’t dampened the mood inside the locker room.
The Bruins have taken fall camp to Costa Mesa, living and breathing football 24/7. Cal transfer Mikey Matthews summed up the mood perfectly:
“We all have a chip on our shoulder. Everyone’s locked in, heads down, just grinding. I feel this team is special.”
DeShaun Foster’s message is clear: no excuses, no matter the system changes. By using Jalen Hurts as a blueprint for resilience and adaptability, UCLA’s new-look offense is determined to surprise the college football world.