Terry Mohajir credits the Knights coach with solving roster turmoil through elite recruiting, spotlighting key transfer portal wins as the program aims for Big 12 contention.
Scott Frost dealt with a massive roster turnaround after returning to UCF for his second tenure, but throughout the chaos, he found players who fit his system and the culture he is building in Orlando.
UCF vice president and athletic director Terry Mohajir made an appearance on the "Smoak Show" hosted by David Smoak on 365 Sports. Mohajir praised Frost for his ability to evaluate talent and execute his team-building vision.
“When Scott Frost came in, he had 70 new players,” Mohajir said. “I think that guy behind the center is always the big piece, and I think he’s kind of solved those issues. He’s done a really good job evaluating.”
Mohajir and the Knights hired Frost in December 2024, a month before the January transfer portal. Frost returned to a familiar program and immediately went to work recruiting talent.
He landed some key contributors in tight end Dylan Wade (Maryland), linebacker Keli Lawson (Virginia Tech), wide receiver Duane Thomas Jr. (Charlotte) and defensive back Phillip Dunnam (Florida Atlantic).
Wade made UCF history in his first season, setting single-season records for a UCF tight end. He hauled in 43 receptions for 523 yards and five touchdowns, also all career highs for the Orlando native.
Lawson tallied the first multi-sack game of his career against then-No. 11 BYU, blocked a field goal against Jacksonville State in the Knights' season opener and signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent.
Thomas Jr. became Frost's top receiver despite not recording any touchdowns. He led the team in receptions (53) and yards (528). Heading into his final collegiate season at UCF, Thomas Jr. spent the offseason polishing his route running and stepping into a leadership role.
Dunnam made Knights history by recording three interceptions in a single game. It was a career-high moment for him against the Houston Cougars during the annual Space Game, which led to his first Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week award.
Frost continued his recruiting effort in this year's transfer portal window. He added talent with proven production at lower levels, like the FCS or smaller schools.
Entering the second year of his second tenure, Frost wants to create a winning culture. His first year ended with a 5-7 record, and he desires to turn that record around and transform UCF into a perennial Big 12 contender.
Mohajir also noted he believes Frost is in a good place in Orlando after a disappointing coaching stint at Nebraska, his alma mater.
“I think anytime you’ve had a traumatic experience like (Nebraska), you have to take a step back and self-reflect, and I do think he loves it here,” Mohajir said. “I think his family loves it here. I think he loves coming into the office. Just seeing that smile, you can tell he loves it. He’s a ball coach. That’s what he is, a ball coach.”
Join the Community. Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!