Bob Chesney takes over as UCLA’s head coach after a 3-9 overall and 3-6 Big Ten campaign in 2025, with several members of his James Madison staff and roster joining him in Westwood. Dean Kennedy is the offensive coordinator, and Nico Iamaleava returns at quarterback. UCLA must replace running back Jalen Berger, while James Madison transfer Wayne Knight has emerged as the lead back, with Anthony Woods and Jaivian Thomas also returning. The Bruins must replace leading receiver Kwazi Gilmer following his transfer to Nebraska, but considerable production remains with Mikey Matthews returning after making 33 catches last season. Transfers Leland Smith and Landon Ellis join the receiving corps after recording 43 and 36 receptions, respectively. The offensive line returns full-time starters Sam Yoon and Eugene Brooks after making 12 and 11 starts, respectively. South Alabama transfer Jordan Davis adds significant experience after nine starts last season, while Boise State transfer Hall Schmidt brings starting experience after 12 starts in 2024.

Colin Hitschler takes over as defensive coordinator after serving in the same role at James Madison. Defensively, UCLA returns four of its top eleven tacklers from last season after losing its top three. In the secondary, Cole Martin and Rodrick Pleasant return as full-time starters, while Scooter Jackson adds significant starting experience and Jalen Woods returns at linebacker. Oklahoma transfer Sammy Omosigho joins the linebacker group, while Utah transfer Tao Johnson adds another full-time starter at safety after making 12 starts last season. UCLA also added several transfers along the defensive front.

Drew Canan takes over as special teams coordinator after holding the same position at James Madison. Mateen Bhaghani returns at placekicker after making 16 of 20 field-goal attempts last season, while Curtis Gerrand takes over at punter. Mikey Matthews handles punt returns, while Wayne Knight provides an option on kickoff returns. Overall, UCLA enters 2026 with a new coaching staff but returns experience at quarterback and several key positions. The Bruins have added proven production at receiver and starting experience along the offensive line and in the secondary, while also working several newcomers into roles throughout the roster.