Cole Martin reversing decision helps UCLA defense

Cole Martin entered the transfer portal to test his options away from UCLA. He has now announced that he will be back with the Bruins next season. With many defensive backs alongside Martin entering the portal, it was seen as a tall task for Bob Chesney to replace so many. Martin returning helps that cause with one less to bring in. As the Bruins still await to see if Rodrick Pleasant their best defensive back from 2025 will return or hit the portal.

Martin’s dad Demetrice Martin was UCLA’s defensive backs coach and there were rumors he would not be a part of Chesney’s new staff. That prompted Cole to try out the portal, and that rumor turned out to be true. As the elder Martin who goes by Coach Meat, looks to be heading to Arizona State. He was a big part in getting Cole, Scooter Jackson and Andre Jordan Jr. to UCLA. Jackson and Jordan Jr. are also currently in the transfer portal.

The Bruins defense struggled, but the defensive backs were one of the areas that succeeded. Although they gave up a lot of yards. The defensive line could not put pressure on the quarterback ranking as one of the worst in the nation. They only had four interceptions all season and Martin had one of them. He also totaled 65 tackles on the season and three passes defended. If Pleasant sticks around as well, we believe Chesney could do wonders with them and how he schemes his defense.

Martin should see his play and stats improve. As UCLA is expected to bring in a lot more talent. Talented players lead to elevating others. Martin provides versatility as well as he has played both nickel and safety. This allows him to move around and be effective. It will be exciting to see what he can do in a new defense. This is an underrated move that will be a positive for this Bruins team.