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Bob Chesney's inaugural Power Four campaign with the UCLA Bruins is generating considerable excitement among the fan base. After two impressive seasons at James Madison, where he succeeded Curt Cignetti, Chesney is poised to make a splash in the college football landscape.
The 2026 UCLA roster has undergone a dramatic overhaul under Chesney, featuring more than 40 transfers from various programs nationwide and 20 incoming freshmen. This influx of new talent makes it challenging to predict the team's performance, but individual player assessments offer insight into what Bruins supporters can anticipate.
One player who stands out is Sahir West, a 6-foot-3, 270-pound defensive end who excelled as a redshirt freshman at James Madison. His relentless motor and disruptive play caught Chesney's attention, prompting the coach to bring him to Westwood. In 2025, West started all 14 games, recording 45 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and seven sacks. He particularly shone in the Sun Belt title game, notching 5.5 tackles for loss and three sacks, setting conference championship records.
Key Analysis
West's transition to the Big Ten presents a step up in competition, but his combination of strength, effort, and technique suggests he can thrive. As a redshirt sophomore, he has the opportunity to become a defensive leader despite being a first-year transfer. His trophy case already includes The Athletic First Team Freshman All-American, Sun Belt Conference Freshman of the Year, and ECAC Defensive Rookie of the Year, along with JMU's Defensive Lineman of the Year and Second Team All-Sun Belt honors. With UCLA flying under the radar nationally, West could emerge as a disruptive force that opposing offenses must account for, making him a name to watch throughout the season.