Checking in on Bruins transfer TJ Harden

TJ Harden was the lead back for UCLA in 2023 and 2024. Rushing for over 1300 yards and 10 touchdowns in those two seasons. Led by a 2023 campaign that included 827 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. In 2024 he saw less of a role and following the season, decided to hit the transfer portal. Ultimately choosing SMU for a consistent opportunity to get the bulk of the carries again. He turned it into a good season as he carried the ball 161 times for 747 yards and seven touchdowns. As SMU went 8-4 on the season.

Harden is also a good pass catcher, as he showed in 2024 with the Bruins he had 40 catches for 368 yards and a touchdown. He didn’t need to do it as much with SMU as their offense didn’t need to check down as much as UCLA did. As the Bruins struggled quite a bit in that season and didn’t have large chunk plays. Harden saw his best time with Chip Kelly in 2023 as he excels in play calling to open up the run game. One area that he did very well in his rather interesting tenure with UCLA.

Harden has a good size and frame for the running back position as he stands at 6’2 and weighs 220 pounds. He counters that with decent speed if he is able to find a lane. He runs between a 4.5 and 4.58 40-yard dash. Which gives him the opportunity to power his way for extra yards or be able to get a sizable gain with acceleration yards. Harden has used all of his eligibility and could sneak his way onto a day three draft radar or an UDFA to a team.

There is a team that will give him an opportunity to make it at the next level. He will have to work his way up to join a backfield. But with his size and speed, there are always opportunities for running backs. Ultimately it was a good decision for him to transfer. UCLA had a rough season, and he probably wouldn’t have been able to display his skills as much. He got that opportunity with SMU and made the most of it. Now he will get one more opportunity at the Holiday Bowl to show scouts what he can do before draft preparations begin.