UCLA flips local 2026 WR Markus Kier
Orange (Calif.) Lutheran wide receiver Markus Kier announced Saturday morning he has flipped his commitment from Princeton to UCLA.
The Bruins have had the 2026 recruit visit for a pair of games this season, including last weekend’s contest against Nebraska at the Rose Bowl.
“What ultimately sealed my decision was after my visit and talking to many of the players that I know that go there and seeing them have success on the field,” Kier told BruinBlitz, “and being able to have the opportunity to do that in the Big 10 means a lot to me because I can see myself being able to be successful at that level as well! As well as having conversations with (general manager Khary) Darlington about the future of the program was very exciting as well!
“UCLA is one of the top colleges in the country, and being able to get the best education and play in the Big 10 means a lot to me and my future!”
Kier’s decision brings UCLA back up to 15 commitments.
His announcement comes a day after Orange Lutheran scored a 20-19 upset victory over national powerhouse St. John Bosco to advance to the CIF Southern Section Division 1 semifinals.
Bruins’ pursuit heated up early in year
Kier told BruinBlitz publisher Matt Moreno in early February that his relationship with receivers coach Burl Toler III was a strong one.
Toler previously recruited Kier while at California.
UCLA was also a favorite school growing up.
“UCLA’s definitely been one of my interests since I was a little kid,” Kier said at the time. “I’ve always loved UCLA over USC.”
Kier plans on spring enrollment
Kier is not expected to be an early enrollee because of his remaining course load.
“I am taking three AP classes, I will not be an early enrollee,” Kier said.
The football early signing period begins Dec. 3.
