Four-star offensive lineman Tommy Tofi from Archbishop Riordan High School in San Francisco has sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world by de-committing from the University of California. The 2026 prospect, who had previously included UCLA in his top eight choices, is now exploring his options anew. This unexpected move comes shortly after Tofi’s visit to the University of Oregon, raising questions about where he might ultimately land.
Tofi’s decision to reopen his recruitment has sparked intense speculation. Despite UCLA’s previous interest, early indications suggest that the Bruins may not be the frontrunners. Tofi’s de-commitment came just weeks after he visited Oregon’s campus in Eugene on June 13, a visit that appears to have left a significant impression.
The Oregon Influence
Matt Prehm, a reporter for 247Sports’ Duck Territory, provided an update on Tofi’s recruitment, highlighting Oregon’s growing appeal. According to Prehm, Tofi had been leaning towards Oregon in the spring before his surprising commitment to Cal. However, his subsequent visit to Eugene has reignited his interest in the Ducks.
“Tommy Tofi was trending towards Oregon in the spring and then he made a surprise commitment to the local California Golden Bears,” Prehm wrote. “However, a few weeks later, the Ducks were able to get Tommy Tofi back to Eugene for an official visit. Now Tofi is trying to work through the process of deciding on sticking with Cal, opening things up, or flipping to the Ducks. Right now, the Ducks are trending and the longer it goes without Tofi reaffirming his commitment to Cal, the more likely it becomes Tofi flips to the Ducks.”
UCLA’s Current Offensive Line Prospects
Meanwhile, UCLA’s 2026 recruiting class already boasts a formidable offensive line lineup. The Bruins have secured commitments from four-star talents Johnnie Jones Jr. and Micah “Champion” Smith, both hailing from Florida. These recruits are among the highest-rated prospects under DeShaun Foster’s leadership at UCLA. Additionally, three-star recruit Cooper Javorsky is also part of this promising class.
Expert Evaluation of Tofi
Greg Biggins, a national recruiting analyst for 247Sports, evaluated Tofi’s potential earlier this year. His assessment underscores Tofi’s versatility and physical prowess, traits that make him a coveted recruit.
“Massive two-way lineman who offers a ton of positional versatility. Enormous frame and could easily play nose guard at the college level but is being recruited solely on the offensive line. Played predominately left tackle as a junior and shows surprising quickness and agility for a 340-pound lineman. Owns tackle length, huge hands, and a jarring punch. Shows above-average balance and lateral mobility as a pass protector. Smashmouth run blocker. Manhandles opposing defensive ends and tackles at the point of attack and plays with the kind of mean streak and nastiness. Boasts a rare combination of size, fluidity, and the ability to finish. Still growing as a player and trending up, having leaned out his body and gained athleticism over the past couple of years. Possesses as much upside as any offensive lineman out west with the potential to become an NFL Draft pick.”
Future Implications and Next Steps
The unfolding saga of Tommy Tofi’s recruitment is a testament to the dynamic nature of college football recruiting. As Tofi weighs his options, the implications for UCLA, Oregon, and Cal are significant. For UCLA, landing Tofi would further bolster an already impressive offensive line class. However, if Oregon continues to gain traction, the Ducks could secure a key piece for their future lineups.
As Tofi navigates his recruitment journey, the coming weeks will be critical. His decision will not only impact the schools involved but also set a precedent for how top recruits manage their commitments in the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics.
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