Aiden Gobaira should get first crack at starting edge position opposite of Sahir West

Aiden Gobaira is an intriguing prospect that comes over to UCLA after a season at James Madison last year. He is expected to get the first crack at being the second edge rusher opposite of Sahir West. West was the star along the James Madison defensive line last year. But, Gobaira had quite the season, himself, rushing the quarterback, and being able to get into the backfield. Ending the season with 38 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and four sacks.

UCLA made it a big priority to go out in the transfer portal and pick up guys that could generate a rush rate. They cannot afford to have season similar to 2024 and 2025. Seasons in which they could not get to the quarterback which led to teams being way too comfortable. UCLA really struggled as a defense allowing quarterbacks to get whatever they want on every game basis. That will not be the case in 2026, Bob Chesney made sure of it.

Gobaira has good size and speed off of the edge to provide for the Bruins. He is 6’5 and 255 pounds and can use that strength to be able to beat blocks on tackles. He was a Third-team All-Sun Belt pick in 2025. He’s not an elite prospect, but all of his numbers would’ve ranked number one on the UCLA team in 2025. The hope is that those numbers will translate to being at a larger school now. Similar to what the team is looking for in West.

Gobaira will play a large role for the Bruins. With James Madison coming off of a College Football Playoff appearance, UCLA will take all of that experience possible. James Madison is a smaller school, but they had a really good defense in 2025. They brought over many players under Chesney and Colin Hitschler. As they pair with guys who returned and with other transfers. There is a lot of excitement that is building around this UCLA Bruins building.