Projecting UCLA Football's Week 1 Depth Chart

UCLA opens the 2026 football season against Cal and will unveil its first Week 1 depth chart, settling key spots across offense. At quarterback, Nico Iamaleava—recently named a team captain—enters as the clear starter, with Madden Iamaleava and Ty Dieffenbach competing for the backup role. At running back, Wayne Knight transfers in from James Madison and is expected to lead a run-first approach, alongside Jaivian Thomas and Anthony Woods. In the receiver group, Brian Rowe Jr. and Landon Ellis are projected as starters, with Mikey Matthews and Semaj Morgan still in contention. Josh Phifer is favored at tight end, while new linemen Jordan Davis and Hall Schmidt start on the outside. The article also notes Riley Robell’s MCL as the center question and highlights defensive-end options including Sahir West and Scott Taylor.