Morgan's return to UCLA
After a slump in Ann Arbor, the senior receiver reconnected with the sport in Westwood.
By Ethan Cook ·
Semaj Morgan committed to UCLA from a plane gate just before boarding his flight back to Michigan. The senior wide receiver made the call to head coach Bob Chesney and offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy after a late-night meeting with the staff in January. He signed his paperwork moments before the wheels lifted off the tarmac.
The decision followed a two-year period where Morgan struggled to find his footing at Michigan. He contributed to the Wolverines' 2023 national championship as a freshman, but his confidence declined in his sophomore year. He described the period as one of complacency, noting that he began to look like every other player on the field. His father, Semaj Sr., told him to have fun, stay competitive, and finish every rep. That advice helped Morgan decide to enter the transfer portal after the bowl season.
The move to Los Angeles was swift. UCLA wide receivers coach Colin Lockett learned of Morgan's availability through a connection with quarterback Nico Iamaleava. The staff met Morgan and his father at the Luskin Hotel in Westwood on January 5. They spent the evening discussing terminology and watching film in the Wasserman Athletic Center. Lockett had already prepared a detailed video package showing Morgan's strengths and weaknesses from his previous seasons.
Morgan's production at UCLA has improved since joining the roster. He became a key contributor after senior Mikey Mathews suffered a season-ending injury in the second game against San Diego State. In that matchup, Morgan caught six passes for 73 yards, helping the Bruins turn a scoreless first half into a 28-10 victory. He has remained a fixture in the offense since then, lining up both inside and outside.
His performance included a crucial play in the upset victory over Oregon on October 10. Morgan tracked a pass thrown behind him, securing the ball and allowing quarterback Ty Dieffenbach to complete the drive. The Bruins have started the season with a 7-0 record, and Morgan has been a steady presence in the receiving corps.
Morgan's path to the sport began at West Bloomfield High School in Oakland County, Michigan. His father coached the local youth team, and Morgan grew up around the program. He displayed versatility early, playing quarterback in his senior year when the starter broke his hand. He chose Michigan over Mississippi, believing the Wolverines could contend for a title immediately. That belief proved correct in his first year, but the culture shift after Jim Harbaugh left for the Chargers affected his development.
Morgan now plays for a team that values his work ethic and competitive drive. He has adapted to the UCLA system, focusing on earning his spot through preparation and performance on the field.
The next scheduled game will test his consistency as the Bruins continue their undefeated season.
