New Big 12 Name Linked to UCLA Job

247Sports released its list of potential candidates for the UCLA head coaching job on Monday, and a new Big 12 name surfaced: Arizona head coach Brent Brennan. The connection makes sense, and it’s one that could complicate things for the Big 12 if UCLA decides to pursue him.

Brennan is a familiar name in West Coast football circles. He played wide receiver at UCLA in the mid-1990s and grew up in the Bay Area, giving him deep California roots. After seven seasons as the head coach at San Jose State, Brennan became known as a strong evaluator with a sharp eye for recruiting in a challenging region. He posted three seven-win seasons in his final four years with the Spartans and fielded an offense in 2023 that ranked No. 17 nationally in yards per play, thanks to a balanced approach. His first season at Arizona didn’t go well, but the Wildcats appear improved in 2025, showing signs that he can rebuild a program in transition.

There are, however, some clear questions about his candidacy. While Brennan brings stability, he isn’t considered a dynamic personality who could immediately energize UCLA’s donor base or drive NIL momentum. The alumnus factor also complicates matters. After the Bruins went that route before, there could be hesitation to do it again, particularly with the program entering the Big Ten and needing a coach who can deliver instant credibility.

Even so, Brennan’s name on the list is notable. He has shown at least a willingness in the past to have conversations with UCLA administrators, and the job carries more upside than Arizona, in terms of resources and long-term potential. From a Big 12 standpoint, this is a storyline to watch closely. Arizona is just settling into its new home, and losing its head coach after one season and change would be a major setback as the league continues to solidify itself post-expansion.

The bottom line is that Brennan represents a realistic, if not flashy, option for UCLA. His ties to the school, recruiting experience, and track record of steady improvement all make him a logical candidate. Whether the Bruins want to take that chance is another question entirely, but the Big 12 will keep a close eye on how this unfolds.