Tosh Lupoi takes over as Cal’s head coach in 2026 after previously serving as Oregon’s defensive coordinator. Jordan Somerville joins the staff as offensive coordinator, while Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele returns at quarterback. Cal will feature a new-look running back room following Kendrick Raphael’s departure, with Washington transfer Adam Mohammed, UTEP transfer Ashten Emory, and UC Davis transfer Carter Vargas joining the program. The Golden Bears must replace their top two receivers from last season in Jacob De Jesus and Trond Grizzell but return four of their top eight pass catchers in Mason Mini, Quaron Adams, Jordan King, and Mark Hamper. Rutgers transfer Ian Strong also joins the receiving corps. The offensive line returns Tyson Ruffins after making 12 starts last season, Siopae Vatikani after making eight, Frederick Williams after making five, and Bastian Swinney after making four. Mississippi State transfer Jimothy Lewis joins the group after making four starts last season.

Michael Hutchings takes over as defensive coordinator. Cal returns three of its top eleven tacklers from last season after losing its top four. Aaron Hampton returns at linebacker, while Cam Sidney and Aiden Manutai return in the secondary. Georgia transfer Daniel Harris joins a defense that will feature several new starters in 2026.

Zach Tinker takes over as special teams coordinator. Chase Meyer returns at placekicker, while Tulsa transfer Angus Davies joins the program at punter. Washington transfer Adam Mohammed brings kickoff-return experience after averaging 26.3 yards per return last season, while Cal’s primary punt-return role remains unsettled. Cal enters 2026 with a new head coach and new coordinators on both sides of the ball while working several new contributors into roles throughout the roster.