Sahir West is officially a Bruin! While many went to sleep, they woke up to the news fans have been waiting for. West was a top target for the Bruins ever since entering his name into the transfer portal. He provides game changing pass rush ability and will immediately slot in on the defensive line as a starter. Last season at James Madison he had 45 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss and seven sacks. Including a monster game in the Sun Belt Championship against Troy that included 10 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and three sacks.
Sahir West is a godpic.twitter.com/V2tBLG168s
— JMU Sports News (@JMUSportsNews) December 6, 2025
West comes to UCLA with familiarity in Bob Chesney and Colin Hitschler’s system. Allowing him to have a seamless transition as he makes the move to Westwood. The best part about it all is he has three years of eligibility remaining. Which is big time if he stays all three years, giving the Bruins a leader on the defense. That is a huge factor in everything knowing he is only going to get better and better as each year goes by. West was the Sun Belt Freshman of the Year at JMU and helped them make the College Football Playoff.
The Bruins ranked near the bottom of the nation in pass rush rate. Which ultimately led to them being one of the worst in the nation at generating turnovers. They have solved both issues in the transfer portal. They have brought in guys that can get to the quarterback, while also bringing in defensive backs that can get those turnovers. It is safe to say we will probably see more than four interceptions and more than 10 sacks this upcoming season.
BREAKING: James Madison edge rusher Sahir West announces his commitment to UCLA late Saturday night on Instagram.
— Benjamin Royer (@thebenroyer) January 11, 2026
The Sun Belt Freshman of the Year joins up with coach Bob Chesney in Westwood.
West will have three years of eligibility remaining. pic.twitter.com/uvw7nRPzlZ
Wayne Knight up until this was the biggest move the Bruins had made. Also coming over from James Madison. This one now tops that, as West can control a game from the line. Not only helping himself, but helping his teammates as he gets double teamed as well. It is huge to hear UCLA was able to beat out two very good schools in Ohio State and Texas A&M for Sahir’s services. Showing the momentum is building in Westwood as they look to turn this thing around. Well done Chesney and welcome to Westwood Sahir!