Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Insider unsure why P.J. Fleck didn't end up at UCLA

Originally posted on Athlon Sports Nation All Gophers | Last updated 2/12/24

Gophers football coach P.J. Fleck dispelled rumors that he was on his way to UCLA on Saturday, taking to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, to say he’s happy at Minnesota and excited for the upcoming season.

Honored to be the Head Football Coach at Minnesota!! Ready for an ELITE 2024 season!!

Now, back to our wedding anniversary trip!! #RTB #HYPRR #SkiUMah

‍♀️️
— P.J. Fleck (@Coach_Fleck) February 11, 2024

While Fleck was immediately floated as a candidate at UCLA, it appears the Bruins were more interested than previously revealed. Per to CBS Sports’ Dennis Dodd, Fleck was a “top choice” for UCLA and “it’s not clear why a deal didn’t get done.”

PJ Fleck was a top choice @UCLA, per sources. It's not clear why a deal didn't get done. Neb DC Tony White also talked to UCLA.
— Dennis Dodd (@dennisdoddcbs) February 12, 2024

Speculation of UCLA’s interest in Fleck floated around Friday when Action Network’s Brett McMurphy reported that the 43-year-old coach would be among the Bruins’ top candidates. Fleck’s name has routinely surfaced over the years whenever high-profile coaching jobs open up.

Fleck, who has a 50-34 record across his seven seasons with the Gophers, is under contract at Minnesota through the 2029 season. According to the Star Tribune, Fleck would owe the U $7 million if he were to leave in 2024 for another job.

For now, it appears Fleck will be staying in Minnesota for the foreseeable future.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports Nation All Gophers and was syndicated with permission.

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