UCLA Football Wraps Up Busy Transfer Portal Window

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Bob Chesney has officially completed his first transfer portal cycle as head coach of the UCLA Bruins, and the results reflect a clear vision for the program’s immediate future. When the portal window closed on Friday, UCLA had added a staggering 39 new players, signaling an aggressive approach to roster construction after a 3–9 campaign in 2025.

According to 247Sports, UCLA’s transfer class ranks 30th nationally, a respectable standing given the sheer volume of incoming players. Within the Big Ten, the Bruins placed sixth, trailing only Ohio State, Penn State, Indiana, Michigan, and USC. While those programs landed more high-profile names, UCLA actually brought in more total transfers than each of the five teams ranked ahead of them.

The Bruins did not land any five-star transfers and secured just two four-star additions, but the focus of this cycle was clearly on rebuilding depth rather than chasing star power. Those two higher-rated players include wide receiver Aidan Mizell from Florida and linebacker Sammy Omosigho from Oklahoma, both of whom are expected to compete for significant roles right away. While more elite talent would have generated buzz, the Bruins’ roster holes demanded a broader approach.

Chesney’s portal strategy emphasized raising the team’s baseline after last season’s struggles. UCLA targeted key areas that faltered in 2025, particularly along the offensive and defensive lines, while also adding bodies to the running back room. Those position groups were thin and inconsistent a year ago, making them logical priorities as the new staff works to stabilize performance on both sides of the ball.

The portal's success wasn’t limited to outside acquisitions. Retention also played a major role in UCLA’s offseason plan. The Bruins managed to keep several important contributors in Westwood despite their initial decisions to explore transfer options. Cole Martin, Scooter Jackson, and Mateen Bhaghani all entered the portal but ultimately chose to remain with the program, providing continuity at a time of significant change.

While this transfer class may not grab national headlines, it represents an important first step in Chesney’s tenure. By focusing on numbers, competition, and positional balance, UCLA has laid the groundwork for a more competitive roster. The challenge now shifts to integrating nearly 40 new pieces and translating that depth into improved results on the field as the Bruins look to move forward in the Big Ten.