Bruins Football: Transfer WR Earns Notable Starting Spot Ahead of Hawaii Game

UCLA football has named Rico Flores Jr. as a starting wide receiver for their upcoming season opener against Hawaii.

The sophomore, who transferred from Notre Dame, will take the field as the starter at the "Zebra" position, surpassing Logan Loya, who led the team in receiving yards last season.

Standing at 6-foot-2, Flores made a strong impression during spring practices and training camp. Last year at Notre Dame, he recorded 27 receptions for 392 yards and one touchdown, finishing third on the team in receiving.

"Rico came in and had a really good spring, followed that up with a great camp," head coach DeShaun Foster said Wednesday .

Flores's maturity and work ethic have been noted by his teammates, who see him as a valuable addition to the receiving corps. Despite being a sophomore, he carries himself with the confidence of a seasoned player.

“Doesn't play like a young guy. Not at all. He's going into his sophomore year, that doesn't sounds right. He’s mature,” UCLA receiver Logan Loya said of Flores earlier this month.

“He acts like an old dude, acts like he’s been here … a very hard worker and competitor and that’s something that I’m glad we brought in because it just makes the whole room better, having people like that.”

Loya, while listed behind Flores on the depth chart, is expected to play a significant role in the offense. The coaching staff has indicated that he will rotate in with the starters, ensuring he remains a key contributor.

The depth chart also features J. Michael Sturdivant and Titus Mokiao-Atimalala as starters at the receiver positions.

Sturdivant was second on the team last season with 36 catches for 597 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing his deep-threat capability.

Mokiao-Atimalala returns from injury after missing last season and will be looking to make an impact in his first game back.

"Those guys have worked their tails off throughout spring and throughout fall camp," quarterback Ethan Garbers said of the receiving core Wednesday. "We put a lot on their plate, this offense requires receivers to do a lot, but they've all stepped up. They've all done what they needed to do."

This matchup against Hawaii holds special significance for Mokiao-Atimalala, as he will be playing against his brother, who is on the Hawaii football team. With several players from Hawaii on the Bruins' roster, this game promises to be an exciting homecoming for them.