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Five Finalists Announced to Replace Justin Wilcox as Cal Football Head Coach

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, November 23rd 2025 at 20:43 GMT by Sporting News

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Five Coaching Candidates Set to Replace Justin Wilcox at Cal

In the wake of Justin Wilcox’s abrupt resignation from the University of California, Berkeley’s football program, the Golden Bears’ athletic department has launched a comprehensive search for a new head coach. The board’s latest announcement names five finalists who will be invited to campus, given the chance to meet with university leadership and alumni, and will have the opportunity to outline their vision for the program. Below is a concise recap of the key points from the Sporting News coverage of the search, including background on each candidate, the criteria the hiring committee is prioritizing, and the broader context surrounding Cal’s football fortunes.

1. The Catalyst: Wilcox’s Resignation

Wilcox, who had led the Bears to a 2‑6 record in the 2023 season, stepped down on March 18 after a series of internal investigations revealed questionable coaching practices and a failure to address allegations of player mistreatment. The university cited the need for “greater alignment between the coaching staff and the institutional mission” as the reason for Wilcox’s exit. The abrupt nature of the resignation has left Cal in a precarious position—especially as the program is in the midst of a rebuilding phase following a 2019‑2020 era of inconsistent play and a lackluster recruiting pipeline.

2. The Five Finalists

Chris Ash is widely regarded as a “state insider.” Having coached at UCLA for nearly a decade, he knows the recruiting landscape in the Bay Area and has cultivated strong relationships with high‑school programs across California. His experience as a recruiting coordinator positions him to re‑energize Cal’s recruiting tree—an essential component of any rebuilding plan.

Tim DeRuyter, the ex‑San Jose State head coach, offers a head‑coach perspective and a proven ability to manage a program under budgetary constraints. DeRuyter’s defensive background and familiarity with California’s high‑school talent pools make him an attractive candidate for a program looking to stabilize its defense.

Jeff Stokes brings the defensive acumen associated with USC’s storied program. His experience in the fast‑paced, run‑heavy offenses of the West Coast and Big Ten could provide the offensive balance Cal has lacked in recent seasons. Stokes is also a strong recruiting contact, which could help widen Cal’s geographic reach.

Jeff Jankowski has a reputation as a developmental coach, especially on the offensive line. His work at Colorado has been noted for turning raw talent into productive units. His expertise could be pivotal in transforming Cal’s run game, which has struggled to gain momentum.

Nick Pera is the only candidate with a history of coaching within Cal’s own football program. His familiarity with the university’s ethos and internal culture could be invaluable for a smoother transition. Pera’s recruiting background and relationships with local coaches may provide continuity, though critics question whether a “stay‑in‑place” candidate can catalyze significant change.

3. The Selection Criteria

According to the university’s statement, the hiring committee will evaluate candidates based on:

1. Recruiting Ability – The program has historically suffered from weak recruiting classes, so the ability to attract top-tier talent in California is a key factor.
2. Coaching Philosophy – A modern, player‑centric approach that prioritizes athlete welfare is paramount after the Wilcox controversy.
3. Program Building – The candidate must demonstrate a track record of building or rebuilding teams, especially in competitive conferences.
4. Alumni and Donor Relations – Strong ties to Cal’s alumni network and the capacity to rally donor support will be critical for financial stability.
5. Cultural Fit – Alignment with the university’s academic and community values is non‑negotiable.

4. The Process and Timeline

The search is slated to conclude in June, with the board expected to announce a hire at a press conference later that month. Candidates will be invited to a campus visit that includes:

• A meet‑and‑greet with the UC‑Berkeley faculty, staff, and student body.
• A presentation outlining their vision for the program’s short‑ and long‑term goals.
• One‑on‑one meetings with key stakeholders (e.g., head of athletics, senior advisors, and alumni leaders).

The board has emphasized that the selection will be made in consultation with the university’s executive committee and that transparency and open communication will be integral throughout the process.

5. Broader Context

Cal’s football program is part of a larger narrative in the Pac‑12, where several schools are grappling with recruitment challenges, alumni discontent, and the pressures of competing against financially stronger programs. With the current landscape of college football shifting toward “coach-first” cultures and a growing emphasis on athlete safety and mental health, the Golden Bears are under scrutiny to demonstrate a swift pivot toward a more professional and player‑friendly environment.

The community reaction has been mixed. Some alumni urge the hiring of a high‑profile coach to “raise the program’s profile,” while others argue for a “homegrown” candidate to preserve Cal’s traditions. The board’s decision will not only shape the future of the football program but also signal the university’s commitment to accountability and institutional integrity.

6. Conclusion

The announcement of the five finalists signals a decisive step toward restoring stability and confidence in the Cal football program. Whether the board will opt for a seasoned head coach from outside the university or a seasoned insider remains to be seen. In any case, the selection process underscores the university’s intent to prioritize athlete welfare, recruiting excellence, and cultural alignment as it seeks to rebuild a program that has endured a turbulent period. The coming weeks will be pivotal, as each candidate presents their case, and the board navigates the delicate balance between ambition, continuity, and the expectations of the Cal community.