Defensive lineman Jay Toia is opting to stay at UCLA

UCLA’s defense got a huge boost Monday night when lineman Jay Toia, who had announced his intention to enter the transfer portal, said he would remain with the Bruins through 2024.

Toia made his announcement on social media via UCLA, where he was quoted as saying, “Bruin Nation! I’m back! I’m ready to finish what I started!” He had posted on social media Thursday that he planned to enter the portal as he neared graduation from UCLA.

The 6-foot-4, 325-pound Toia, who started his career at USC, played 24 games for UCLA over the past two seasons. He had 28 tackles, including four for loss and a sack, last fall as the Bruins finished No. 2 nationally against the run and No. 14 in points allowed. He had 30 tackles, including three for loss, and a forced fumble in 2022.

Toia’s decision strengthens a UCLA defensive line that already loses Laiatu Latu, a projected first-round pick in this week’s NFL draft, as well as linemen Gabriel and Grayson Murphy. The three combined for 26 sacks, 46.5 tackles for loss and 29 quarterback hurries. Toia will rejoin defensive tackle Keanu Williams, veteran Gary Smith III and others.

Toia will again play under Ikaika Malloe, who coached the UCLA defensive line last year and has been promoted to defensive coordinator for the 2024 season.