The DeShaun Foster era with the UCLA Bruins continues to gain serious momentum. On Thursday, the Bruins secured a major recruiting win with the commitment of 2026 four-star defensive lineman David Schwerzel out of Seattle’s O’Dea High School — a player many thought was headed to Washington.
Schwerzel, ranked as the No. 2 overall recruit in Washington and No. 37 defensive lineman nationally by 247Sports, chose UCLA over a top-five that included Washington, Stanford, Cal, and Notre Dame. The battle came down to the Bruins and Huskies, with a June 14 official visit to Westwood ultimately tipping the scales in UCLA’s favor.
UCLA Bruins Land Major 2026 Commitment in Edge Rusher David Schwerzel

Is it a great day to be alive and to be a Bruin?
“I loved Westwood and I thought it was beautiful and amazing,” Schwerzel told reporters. “No matter if it was the offensive coaches or the defensive coaches, they all showed they cared.”
His relationship with UCLA defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe, a former Washington player and coach, proved pivotal. “Coach Malloe has been my guy for a long time,” Schwerzel said. “He’s a great coach and he develops his players. We have a great relationship… and my family really trusts him.”
Malloe extended an offer shortly after Foster took over as head coach, and Schwerzel says he’s always felt like a priority. An in-home visit sealed the personal connection, but it was the overall UCLA experience — and the impression left by Foster — that closed the deal.
“I love Coach Foster and everything he is about,” Schwerzel said. “We talked a lot of ball and about how special UCLA really is.”
Schwerzel becomes the Bruins’ 19th commitment — and 11th this June — in a class that now ranks No. 10 nationally per Rivals. He’s expected to bring immediate impact potential to a defensive front that has long sought elite West Coast linemen. Versatile enough to play both edge and inside at the 3-tech spot, the 6-foot-4, 250-pound lineman boasts a high motor, strong hands, and a frame that could easily carry 290 pounds without sacrificing athleticism.
With Foster and Malloe leading the charge, UCLA’s 2026 class is shaping up to be one of its best in years — and Schwerzel might be its crown jewel.