UCLA Football Gets a Fresh Start With a New Defense

The UCLA Bruins had a tough 2025 football season. The defense gave up a lot of points and could not stop other teams from running the ball. Now, new head coach Bob Chesney has brought in a completely new defensive staff and several new players. The Bruins hope these changes will make them much harder to beat this season.

One of the biggest new additions is Sahir West, a defensive end who transferred from James Madison University. West was named the Sun Belt Freshman of the Year in 2025 after recording seven sacks and 14 tackles for a loss. Coaches expect him to be the most valuable player of UCLA's preseason. If West can keep that level of play in the Big Ten Conference, the Bruins' defense could be one of the most improved in the country.

Sophomore Scott Taylor has been practicing right alongside West at preseason camp. Taylor gained 12 pounds of muscle and increased his speed during the offseason. Coaches see him as a player who can fill many different roles in the new defensive system. He is considered the team's top breakout player to watch this season.

New defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler is in charge of putting all the pieces together. He replaced former coordinator Ikaika Malloe, who left after the team started 2025 with an 0-3 record. Hitschler wants his players to be flexible and able to play more than one position. Coach Chesney agrees, saying he never wants a player who can only do one thing.

In the secondary, Rodrick Pleasant returned from a shoulder injury that kept him out most of the spring. He was named an All-Big Ten honorable mention player in 2025. Coach Chesney praised his leadership and football knowledge highly. Pleasant helps make sure every player on defense knows what to do on every single play.

Off the football field, UCLA basketball star Russell Westbrook officially retired from the NBA. He played 18 seasons and set the all-time record for career triple-doubles with 209. Before going pro, Westbrook played two seasons at UCLA and helped the Bruins reach the Final Four twice. He is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.

The UCLA women's soccer team also started its new season. The Bruins lost 2-1 to BYU before drawing 1-1 with No. 3 Duke at home. Junior Kara Croone scored the team's first goal of the year against BYU. Even without a win in the opening weekend, the team showed it can battle top-ranked opponents.