On today’s episode, we recap UCLA’s slow end of recruiting and their lost battle for 3-star defensive lineman Lopeti Moala.
In today’s episode of the UCLA Bruins Insider Podcast, we discuss UCLA’s sluggish conclusion to their recruiting efforts and the setback in their pursuit of 3-star defensive lineman Lopeti Moala.
Three-star defensive lineman Lopeti Moala from Orem, Utah, recently announced his commitment to BYU just days after naming UCLA among his top four schools. This marks the third recruiting loss for the Bruins as they wrap up an otherwise impressive June.
“Thank you to all the coaches and schools that offered me. After discussing with my parents, personal prayer, and careful consideration, I have decided to commit to Brigham Young University!” Moala shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday.
UCLA has consistently been in the running for many of the nation’s top recruits for the class of 2026. However, DeShaun Foster and the Bruins have experienced a bit of a downturn lately, missing out on commitments from twin wide receivers Jaron and Kennan Pula, and losing out to Arizona for four-star quarterback Oscar Rios, as well as to Utah for three-star defensive back Dylan Waters.
Despite this, UCLA has secured 15 commitments this June and is expected to gain more as they head into July.
Foster has successfully attracted recruits from across the country, including high-rated prospects Johnnie Jones and Micah Smith from Florida. Even though Moala chose his in-state school, Foster appeared to be the most likely candidate to sway him.
UteZone reporter Sammy Mora evaluated Moala ahead of his official visit to Utah in late May, noting:
“Moala is currently 6’4” and weighs 250 pounds. He will need to add some weight to be effective at the next level. He has the versatility to play both on the EDGE and as an interior lineman during his college career. With a rating of 87 from 247Sports, he is recognized as a three-star prospect, while his composite ranking is slightly lower at 0.8650. He ranks as the 12th-best player in Utah for the class of 2026 and is the 96th-ranked defensive lineman in this class.
“Moala is lengthy and disruptive, capable of shedding tackles quickly to penetrate the backfield and gain leverage on offensive linemen. He is a solid tackler but needs to refine his pass rush, as he can sometimes get lost in traffic. While not the fastest player on the field, he is dedicated to making plays.”
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