UCLA coach’s lengthy transfer portal shopping list gets longer with tight end injury


UCLA coach DeShaun Foster is hoping to find some talent via the NCAA transfer portal to bolster several position groups. (Ric Tapia / Getty Images)

Hey, all you defensive backs about to enter the transfer portal. Offensive and defensive linemen getting antsy for a new school, listen up. Any tight end who is about to become a free agent, pay attention too.

UCLA just might have a spot for you.

Three days before the opening of the spring transfer portal window, Bruins coach DeShaun Foster identified his wish list in a bid to infuse talent and depth into a roster that could use a heavy helping of both.

“I have six positions I want to address,” Foster said Saturday, “and then best available [talent] after that.”

Read more: Competition is at the root of everything UCLA does under new coach DeShaun Foster

Foster ticked off offensive line, defensive line, tight end, defensive back and possibly running back and quarterback when asked which positions he would like to bolster. The spring transfer options usually are not as robust as they are in the winter because many players on the move this time of year are seeking more playing time after having been beaten out for a starting spot.

UCLA certainly could use help along the offensive line after giving up 42 sacks last season. Four of five starters will return, but the tackle spots remain shaky, a redshirt freshman is the projected starter at center, and there’s little veteran depth.

The defensive line would welcome a proven edge rusher and interior depth. Quarterback also is thin after Collin Schlee’s departure left only four players at the position.

The three transfer defensive backs UCLA brought in over the winter probably aren’t enough given massive turnover at that position. And the Bruins’ tight end depth may have taken a major hit Saturday when Hudson Habermehl suffered what appeared to be a serious left knee injury.

Read more: Help wanted sign goes up at edge rusher for UCLA after Choe Bryant-Strother leaves

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/ucla-coachs-lengthy-transfer-portal-213742651.html

Author : LA Times

Publish date : 2024-04-13 21:37:42

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