Bob Chesney didn’t need anyone to point out what UCLA’s football team needed from the transfer portal.
Offensive linemen, defensive linemen, a wide receiver, a tight end, linebackers, defensive backs, even a running back and a backup quarterback. It’s like he was making a shopping list for a grocery run.
For the Bruins, the effort proved fruitful. Chesney and his team managed to acquire enough talent to almost fill half the roster with 41 transfers. Following a successful run that took the Dukes to the College Football Playoff, 10 players from James Madison joined Chesney’s mission to reshape the Bruins.
Quality came along with quantity. Out of the new recruits, six were four-star prospects, along with two four-star transfers.
A look at key positions
The team has notably bolstered its offensive line, defensive line, and wide receiver corps.
With nine offensive linemen, the Bruins now have nearly two-deep transfers for a group that requires at least three fresh starters. Jordan Davis, who excelled at South Alabama, appears to be the starting left tackle.
Among these transfers, five started a minimum of 10 games at the Football Bowl Subdivision level, which equips them for immediate play without a steep learning curve. However, returning center Sam Yoon could face a challenge in keeping his starting position if he doesn’t resolve his snap problems.
The defensive line also saw nine new transfers, bringing intriguing options for edge rushing. Sahil West could be the impactful player the Bruins lacked last season, while Aiden Gobaira and Ryan McCulloch have strong potential for generating sacks.
Interestingly, the wide receiver group hasn’t garnered as much attention considering its talent level. This could change rapidly if one of the six transfer wideouts makes a significant play.
Noteworthy newcomers
Aiden Mizell displayed impressive speed down in Florida. Semaj Morgan contributed as a part-time starter at Michigan, while Brian Rowe Jr. was part of a rotation at the University of South Carolina. Landon Ellis led James Madison in receiving yards for the past two seasons. This variety of skills offers exciting possibilities.
Five impact players to watch
Edge Sahil West: His decision to choose the Bruins over Ohio State and Texas A&M signals confidence in Chesney’s vision. He was the Sun Belt Conference Freshman of the Year in 2025 and will undoubtedly aim to live up to his “Sack Master” nickname.
OT Jordan Davis: Securing a left tackle with considerable FBS experience is a big win. Davis has nearly started every game for the past three seasons at South Alabama and seems set to continue that trend at UCLA.
RB Wayne Knight: At just 5-foot-6, Knight is both quick and powerful. Any doubts about his transition to the Big Ten were dispelled when he ran for 110 yards in his playoff game against Oregon.
S. Tao Johnson: His toughness from 34 starts in three seasons at Utah is a much-needed addition to UCLA’s secondary, promising to be a force early on.
LB Sammy Omoshigo: After playing in 36 games at Oklahoma, his veteran presence should help him compete for a starting spot, having mainly served as a reserve previously.
What does this mean for UCLA’s 2026 season?
Chesney’s strategic moves in the transfer portal have set the stage for a successful first season with the Bruins.
With key returning players like starting quarterback Nico Iamareaba and guard Eugene Brooks, along with defensive backs like Scooter Jackson, Rodrick Pleasant, and Cole Martin, UCLA has a solid roster capable of reaching a bowl game and maybe even surprising in the Big Ten.
This year’s roster seems different. It’s packed with players who have proven themselves at various levels, creating a depth that will mitigate the impact of injuries.
Now, I suppose it’s time to put everything into action.
