Players on the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) football team are adjusting to the leadership style of first-year head coach Bob Chesney as they approach the May 2 Spring Game at the Rose Bowl. With a roster that includes 56 newcomers, among them 43 transfers, this spring has become a period of transition for the program.
The influx of new players means UCLA is working to align its habits, expectations, and culture under Chesney’s direction. Linebacker Sammy Omosigho, who transferred from Oklahoma, said his decision was influenced by more than just football. “Man, opportunity, you know, Coach Chesney, he’s a winner wherever he goes,” Omosigho said. “It didn’t take a lot of convincing.” He added that after meeting with Chesney in person he knew he wanted to play for him: “When I was talking to Coach Chesney in his office for our meeting, it just clicked…I want to play for him.”
Wide receiver Landon Ellis followed Chesney from James Madison and described his experience as an extension rather than a change. “Honestly, I think my visit [to UCLA] really sealed the deal,” Ellis said. “[Playing for Chesney] was the most fun I’ve ever had playing football.” According to Ellis: “Every high-level football player wants to compete at all times…That’s what he preaches day in and day out.” Running back Javian Thomas also cited trust in choosing to stay with UCLA: “He didn’t even say ‘we could win,'” Thomas said about Chesney. “He said ‘we’re going to win.’ And that stuck with me.”
Adjusting off the field has been another challenge for some transfers like Omosigho and Ellis as they adapt to life in Los Angeles after living in Oklahoma or Virginia. Omosigho noted learning about UCLA’s history—such as Jackie Robinson playing four sports there—and commented on city life: “Traffic. Oh my goodness…You have no parking and then when there is parking you have to pay for it.” Despite these challenges both agreed that being at UCLA offers unique opportunities: “You can’t beat the beaches and you have this beautiful campus,” Omosigho said.
For returning players like Thomas and linebacker Scott Taylor—who appeared in all 12 games last season—the spring provides an opportunity for growth under new leadership. Taylor spoke highly of his new coach: “Coach Chesney…he’s just one of the greatest leaders I’ve been able to be coached by,” Taylor said.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava continues to make an impression during practices after averaging over 175 passing yards per game last season and accounting for most team touchdowns in 2025. Teammates described him as increasingly vocal on the field; Ellis remarked: “When he comes out here on the field he’s running the show.” Looking ahead, players expressed optimism about their competitiveness within their conference.
