In a recent publication, a USA TODAY sports analyst identified two UCLA Bruins as significant additions to the Big Ten conference for the 2026 football season. These players, a veteran running back and a promising defensive end, are anticipated to make substantial contributions to their new team, having transitioned from James Madison alongside their former head coach.
The analysis featured senior running back Wayne Knight, who arrives at UCLA with an impressive track record. Last season, Knight garnered All-American honors from multiple sports outlets. He played a pivotal role for the James Madison Dukes, accumulating 1,373 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, in addition to catching 40 passes for 397 yards and another score. Despite his compact build, standing 5-foot-7 and weighing 193 pounds, Knight demonstrated his capability to excel against formidable opponents. Notably, he rushed for 110 yards with an average of 6.5 yards per carry during a College Football Playoff matchup against Oregon. Knight is currently featured on various preseason All-American lists, underscoring the high expectations for his performance in his final year of collegiate eligibility.
Following Knight on the list was sophomore defensive end Sahir West, another talent from James Madison. West experienced a breakout redshirt freshman season in 2025, where he recorded seven sacks. The 6-foot-3, 279-pound edge rusher has already been making a strong impression during UCLA's fall camp, posing challenges for the team's offense. His athleticism also earned him a spot on Bruce Feldman's "Freaks List," which acknowledges some of college football's most exceptional athletes. Coach Chesney is reportedly optimistic about West's ability to adapt to the higher level of competition in the Big Ten and foresees him becoming a prominent player this season.
The arrival of these two athletes, particularly their reunion with former coach Bob Chesney, signals a strategic move for UCLA as they enter the Big Ten. Their proven abilities and high potential are expected to significantly bolster the team's offensive and defensive capabilities, offering a fresh dynamic to the Bruins' lineup for the upcoming season.
