UCLA defensive lineman Jay Toia was back at practice Tuesday for the first time publicly after announcing Monday that he’d withdrawn his name from the transfer portal.
Toia entered the transfer portal Thursday and did not participate in two practices, including the Friday Night Lights event.
UCLA football coach DeShaun Foster told the Southern California News Group on Monday that Toia was back in the facility and participated in a team meeting.
College football is in the final week of the spring transfer portal window, which allows players to explore their options and consider playing at another program. Several factors can determine a player’s reasoning for leaving, such as better Name, Image and Likeness opportunities, seeking more playing time or opting to play closer to home.
Toia was ranked as the third-best defensive lineman in the transfer portal, according to 247sports.
His latest decision marks the second time the Bruins have been successful with him in the transfer portal. The defensive lineman became the highest-rated recruit for the Bruins’ 2021 class after he flipped from USC following spring camp.
It remains unclear publicly what Toia’s reasoning was for entering the portal, but it’s considered a major victory for the program to have the defensive standout remain in Westwood. It also serves as a significant statement that the football program has what it takes to keep its top talent from leaving.
The Grace Brethren alumnus started 12 of 13 UCLA games and had 28 tackles (four for a loss) and a sack in 2023. Toia helped anchor a defensive front that featured edge rushers Laiatu Latu, Gabriel and Grayson Murphy.
All three players could be drafted by NFL teams this weekend. Toia might have the opportunity to hear his name called next year and will likely be considered the top-rated NFL prospect for the Bruins in 2024.
Several members of the coaching staff shared their excitement about Toia’s return on X, formerly known as Twitter, including defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe, who worked closely with him as the defensive line coach over the past two seasons.
“You can have it all here! Get developed in a Family Environment! So thankful and honored to be part of Jay’s future,” Malloe shared in a post on X.
SPRING SHOWCASE
The football program will have its Spring Showcase at the Rose Bowl with a chance to build on the momentum from last week’s Friday Lights Practice.
Foster mentioned more than 20,000 tickets have been reserved for the event.
“There’s going to be a few surprises,” Foster said. “We can’t let the cat out of the bag, but you will not be disappointed when you get out there to the Rose Bowl.”
The university has already announced several aspects of the event including the opportunity to tailgate and watch the UCLA men’s soccer team play the Liga Premier U23 Select Team.
The football team is expected to be on the field at 2 p.m. but it has not been determined how it will be divided for competitive periods.
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There will also be an autograph session after the showcase with current and former players from different decades.
RECRUITING TRAIL
Former UNLV left guard Alani Makihele committed to UCLA football Monday.
The 6-foot-3, 350-pound offensive lineman played in 13 of 14 games last season for the Runnin’ Rebels. He’ll come in as a graduate transfer with two years of eligibility.
Makihele is expected to join UCLA for training camp.
