Projecting UCLA's Week 1 Defensive Starters Before Camp Begins

A projection ahead of UCLA’s fall camp starting August 12 outlines a potential Week 1 defensive lineup after questions about last year’s production. The piece points to major issues in the pass rush and run defense, citing 10 sacks and 40 tackles for loss, both last in the Big Ten, while the secondary finished middle-of-the-pack at 196 passing yards allowed per game. The projected starters include edge Sahir West, defensive tackles Maxwell Roy and Tyson Ford, and edge Aiden Gobaira. The linebacker group is Samuel Omosigho and Jalen Woods, with DJ Barksdale at nickel in a 4-2-5 scheme. The note also flags depth concerns and developmental roles, given the Bruins’ roster changes.