AJ Sanders III Joins California Golden Bears 2027 Class

Cal football program secures standout running back recruit from Houston

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:39am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a college football player in motion, with their jersey number partially visible but their face and other identifying features abstracted into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the official colors of the California Golden Bears.A new offensive weapon joins the California Golden Bears, as the program continues to build for the future.Houston Today

The California Golden Bears football program has landed a major recruiting victory, securing a commitment from three-star running back AJ Sanders III for their 2027 class. Sanders, a Houston-based prospect, chose Cal over offers from prestigious programs like LSU and Alabama, highlighting the appeal of the Golden Bears' program and the potential of the young player.

Why it matters

This recruitment is a testament to the success of Cal's coaching staff, particularly defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi, who has built a reputation for attracting top talent to the program. Sanders' commitment adds another offensive weapon to the Golden Bears' arsenal as they aim to build a powerhouse team in the competitive Pac-12 conference.

The details

AJ Sanders III, the 63rd-ranked running back in the nation, had an impressive high school career, racking up 769 yards and 10 touchdowns on just 82 carries for C.E. King High School in Houston. His decision to commit to Cal comes during a big recruiting weekend for the program, showcasing the coaching staff's ability to identify and secure top talent.

  • AJ Sanders III committed to the California Golden Bears on April 12, 2026.
  • Sanders had 63 offers from prestigious programs like LSU and Alabama before choosing Cal.

The players

AJ Sanders III

A three-star running back recruit and the 63rd-ranked player at his position nationally, Sanders chose to commit to the California Golden Bears over offers from schools like LSU and Alabama.

Tosh Lupoi

The defensive coordinator for the California Golden Bears, Lupoi has built a reputation for his successful recruiting efforts that have helped the program attract top talent.

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What’s next

As Sanders joins the Cal football program, the coaching staff will work to develop his skills and integrate him into the team's offensive strategy. His performance in the coming years will be closely watched as the Golden Bears aim to build a contender in the Pac-12.

The takeaway

This recruitment highlights the increasingly competitive nature of college football, where programs are investing heavily in securing top talent. The success of Cal's coaching staff, particularly Tosh Lupoi, in attracting a player like AJ Sanders III demonstrates the program's vision and commitment to building a powerhouse team.