Morgan's transfer to UCLA revives his career after Michigan slump

Semaj Morgan arrived at UCLA with a history of disappointment. The senior wide receiver from Detroit said he lost his love for the game while playing for Michigan, where he had earned a national championship ring as a freshman in 2023. He described a period of complacency where he dropped passes and lacked the competitive energy that defined his early career. By the end of his time in Ann Arbor, he felt he looked like everyone else on the field.

Morgan’s journey began at West Bloomfield High School in Oakland County, Michigan. He grew up around the program because his father, Semaj Sr., coached the local youth team. Morgan developed a deep loyalty to the school, leading the offense as a junior and stepping in at quarterback when the starter broke his hand in the senior season. His versatility and work ethic earned him a spot at Michigan over Mississippi State.

His freshman year at Michigan showed promise. He earned playing time at slot receiver and on kick returns. However, changes in coaching and culture followed the departure of head coach Jim Harbaugh. Morgan’s development stalled. He admitted to his father that he felt he had lost his passion for football. Semaj Sr. told him to have fun, stay competitive, and finish every rep.

The transfer process was quick. On Jan. 5, Morgan and his father landed in Los Angeles. UCLA wide receivers coach Zachary Lockett had already identified Morgan through a connection with Nico Iamaleava. They met coaches Bob Chesney and Dean Kennedy at the Luskin Hotel that night. The group skipped the planned presentation and watched film together until 11 p.m. Morgan committed to UCLA before leaving for his flight back to Michigan.

Morgan’s impact became apparent early in the 2026 season. Senior Mikey Mathews suffered a season-ending injury in the second game against San Diego State. Morgan stepped into a larger role. He recorded six catches for 73 yards as UCLA turned a scoreless first half into a 28-10 victory. He continued to contribute over the next three weeks, helping the Bruins upset Oregon on Oct. 10.

A stumble came in Week 7 against Wisconsin. Offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy called a trick play on the first drive of the second half. Morgan launched a pass to Landon Ellis, but a defender intercepted it. Morgan said he refused to dwell on the error. He bounced back with a 33-yard completion that helped secure a 17-7 win. UCLA now sits at 7-0 under the No. 7 ranking.

The program values Morgan’s attitude. Semaj Sr. asked head coach Bob Chesney if he could watch practice and if they would let his son be himself. Chesney replied that they needed more players like him. Morgan’s father observed that his son now walks onto the field with a new level of focus. The transfer has restored the competitive fire that had faded in Ann Arbor.