Hence, UCLA alumnus and well-known figure Martin Jarmond was trusted by the athletic director. As UCLA’s next head coach, Jarmond brought on Deshaun Foster, who had run for 1,000 yards as a senior in 2001 and had returned to the program as an assistant coach from 2013–15 and again from 2017–23.

Foster is returning to his alma institution to help with the transition to the Big Ten after recently leaving Kelly’s staff to take a position as running backs coach for the Las Vegas Raiders under Antonio Pierce.

Foster said in a statement, “This is a dream come true. Since I was a young child, I have always imagined myself to be a Bruin. It feels really strange to be the head coach at my old school, but I’m thankful for the chance.

“The cornerstone of this program will be built on discipline, respect, and enthusiasm,” the newly appointed head coach went on. These young men are incredible, and I can’t wait to get started right away.

According to reports on the coaching search, Foster was chosen for the position not just because of his charismatic leadership, which impressed the UCLA administration, but also because of his commitment to focusing on fundraising and recruiting in the Los Angeles region.

Kelly’s major shortcomings as a head coach seemed to have been recruiting and fundraising, which perhaps contributed to his readiness to step down in favor of a demotion. Foster was perhaps UCLA’s best opportunity to preserve the coaching staff and remaining players from the previous season, having been on staff.