For the 2025 UCLA Football team, here are five impactful players who will make a difference for this upcoming season.
The 2025 UCLA football season will be significant because it will be the team's second year in the Big Ten and the second year under head coach DeShaun Foster. The Bruins' success will depend a lot on a few key players, especially those who can make a difference right away on both offense and defense.
Here are five offensive and five defensive players who are expected to have the most significant positive effect on UCLA football this season, and why and how they will have a positive impact on the team this season.
1. Nico Iamaleava, QB, R-So.
Why: Iamaleava's arrival is probably the biggest thing that will impact UCLA football in 2025. He is a former five-star recruit and highly rated transfer from Tennessee. He brings a level of talent and excitement that the program hasn't seen in a while, surpassing even Dante Moore's arrival at Westwood. He is expected to be a dual-threat quarterback, which means he can both throw and run. This is something that was often missing in the past.
How: Just having Iamaleava on the team should make the whole offense a lot better. He is a playmaker who can make things happen when the pocket breaks down, and his strong arm will make the passing game better. He will be the offense's leader, and his performance will directly affect how well the team can score points and compete in the Big Ten. The Bruins will need him to run the offense and cut down on turnovers.
2. Jaivian Thomas, a junior running back
Why: The Bruins' rushing attack was one of the worst in the FBS last year, so they need a good ground game for 2025. Thomas, who came to Westwood from Cal this offseason, is expected to be the leader of the running back room. He has shown signs of being a fast and impactful back.
How: Thomas's ability to be a workhorse back will be very important for a balanced attack. He will help Iamaleava and the passing game by taking some of the pressure off of him and the receivers. He will also help control the clock and open up play-action opportunities. To win close games in the Big Ten and keep the defense fresh, the team will need to have a strong running game.
3. Garrett DiGiorgio, OT, R-Sr.
Why: The offensive line's performance is critical because there is a new quarterback and the team wants to run the ball. DiGiorgio has extensive experience as a starter for the past three seasons and is a veteran and anchor at right tackle.
How: DiGiorgio's experience and dependability will be invaluable as the leader of the offensive line. If he moves to LT, he will be in charge of protecting Iamaleava's blind side. For both pass protection and making space for the running backs, it will be imperative that he can win his one-on-one matchups.