The California Golden Bears kicked off their second official visit (OV) weekend of the 2025 recruiting cycle with a major win on the recruiting trail, landing a commitment from interior offensive lineman Iosefa Keli out of Honolulu, Hawaii. Keli, a standout from Farrington High School, becomes the first pledge of the weekend and adds a significant boost to Cal’s efforts to fortify its offensive line in the coming years.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and 300 pounds, Keli is widely regarded as one of the top interior linemen in the state of Hawaii. Known for his powerful base, quick feet, and relentless motor, he has been a mainstay on his high school’s offensive front since his sophomore season. His commitment marks a key early success for Cal’s staff during a crucial recruiting stretch.
Keli announced his decision shortly after wrapping up his visit in Berkeley, citing the coaching staff, player development, and academic support as major factors in his choice. “The moment I stepped on campus, it felt like home,” Keli told reporters. “Coach Wilcox and Coach Bloesch made it clear how I’d fit into their vision, both as a player and a student. I felt the love from the team and the community.”
Offensive line coach Mike Bloesch played a central role in recruiting Keli. With Cal looking to build a deeper and more versatile offensive line group in the 2025 class, the commitment of a high-upside, high-character prospect like Keli sets the tone early. Cal has emphasized the need to improve depth and size in the trenches to compete more effectively in the Big Ten starting in 2026, and Keli fits that mold perfectly.
“He’s a physical, smart lineman with a lot of potential,” one Cal staffer said. “He’s coachable, tough, and he plays with an edge. We love that he comes from a strong football culture in Hawaii — guys from there know how to compete.”
Keli’s commitment also underscores Cal’s growing recruiting presence in the Pacific. Over the last few years, the Bears have successfully pursued talent from Hawaii and the broader Polynesian pipeline, adding both depth and diversity to their roster. Keli continues that tradition and becomes another bridge between the Bay Area and the islands.
With several other key targets on campus this weekend, including blue-chip talent across the defensive and skill positions, Cal hopes Keli’s early decision sets off a domino effect. The coaching staff has prioritized bonding between visiting recruits, and Keli’s commitment provides a positive spark heading into the weekend’s remaining events.
As it stands, Keli becomes the fourth overall commitment in Cal’s 2025 class, which is expected to grow substantially over the next month. The Bears aim to capitalize on summer official visits to lock in foundational pieces before the fall season ramps up.
For now, Cal fans can celebrate a key trench addition — and a sign that recruiting momentum is building in Berkeley.
