UCLA’s New Football Coach Bob Chesney Inspires High School Coaches with His Enthusiasm and Vision

UCLA Football Coach Bob Chesney Making Waves in Recruitment Efforts

New UCLA football coach Bob Chesney is making a strong impression on high school coaches across Southern California as he intensifies his recruitment efforts following the close of the college transfer portal on January 16. Coaches are praising his high-energy approach and clear vision for revitalizing the Bruins’ program.

Jason Negro, head coach at St. John Bosco, remarked, “He’s a high-energy guy who has a clear vision. He’s going to bring some excitement back. I was highly impressed. If he’s going to execute what his plan is, he’s going to have immediate success.”

Chesney’s frequent visits to local high schools have not gone unnoticed. His presence has sparked conversations about potential new opportunities for student-athletes, as he meets with coaches and players alike. During a visit to St. John Bosco, Chesney was driven by former assistant Marshawn Friloux, who has remained with UCLA’s recruiting department.

Football coach Keith Miller from Bellflower High School also noted Chesney’s engaging personality during a recent visit. Miller’s son, Austin, one of the top tight ends from the class of 2029, received a scholarship offer shortly after their meeting. Miller stated, "Chesney was eloquent and transparent, telling my son, ‘I didn’t just watch your film, I studied it and what stood out to me are the multiple efforts you make.’"

UCLA’s recruiting strategy under Chesney has shifted from former coach Chip Kelly’s approach, as the program begins actively providing scholarship offers to a broader range of prospects. This new direction began with former coach DeShaun Foster and is set to enhance UCLA’s competitiveness against other top programs in the region.

Chesney faces a significant challenge, particularly as rival USC, led by coach Lincoln Riley, has secured the top recruiting class this year while targeting elite players like defensive back/running back Honor Fa’alave-Johnson from San Diego Cathedral Catholic.

Rod Sherman, the head coach at Orange Lutheran, expressed confidence in Chesney’s vision: “I think he’s got a belief to develop kids and not create this transactional culture in college football. I think you’d be a fool to sleep on UCLA the next few years.” Sherman’s sentiments reflect a growing optimism among local coaches regarding UCLA’s potential.

However, navigating the current landscape also requires addressing the influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which may complicate recruitment for some prospects. Chesney will need to identify and attract suitable talent reminiscent of his time at James Madison.

Negro highlighted Chesney’s objective of finding foundational players rather than focusing solely on star rankings. “He’s going to fit what is needed for the program," Negro said, emphasizing Chesney’s approach to scouting talent.

Chesney is committed to building relationships with high school coaches, confirming that he is inviting them to visit UCLA, a practice echoed by USC coach Riley. Recent visits also included City Section school Hamilton, where Chesney offered a scholarship to standout quarterback Thaddeus Breaux.

As the recruiting period approaches its conclusion, more appearances by Chesney are anticipated, as he continues to forge a path for UCLA football in the competitive Southern California landscape.