Important Starters UCLA Football Must Rely On

UCLA is entering fall camp with a fresh approach under first-year head coach Bob Chesney, and the Bruins are counting on specific players to drive improvement from their 2025 win total. The article highlights five key starters for 2026 on both sides of the ball. On defense, linebacker Jalen Woods is expected to be a steady presence after recording 47 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss last season. Safety Tao Johnson is noted for 51 tackles, two interceptions and four passes broken up in 2025. On offense, transfer Landon Ellis brings deep-threat production, including 17.3 yards per catch and five touchdowns. Up front, left tackle Jordan Davis, a former South Alabama player, returned to his role after an early season-ending injury in 2025, while edge rusher Sahir West aims to build on 6.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss.