Offseason look at the offensive line reshuffle

UCLA set out this offseason in hopes of rebuilding their offensive line. They did just out through the transfer portal and secured the return of Eugene Brooks. Giving Nico Iamaleava the best chance this upcoming season to make some noise. 2025 was a rough season and saw him on the run in majority of the time. Things needed to change and Bob Chesney knew what he needed to do. He picked up commitments from Riley Robell, Jordan Davis, JD Rayner, Hall Schmidt and Derek Osman who all have college experience. Revamping the most struggling position on the team.

Robell and Rayner each come over from James Madison, following Chesney after helping lead the Dukes to the College Football Playoff. It is a welcome sight for Iamaleava as he looks for a good season before his next move. One that could include him declaring for the NFL draft with a good 2026 season. Robell was the cream of the crop as he was Second Team All-Sun Belt in 2025 and led the way in paving lanes for Wayne Knight. Which she will also get to do at UCLA, since Knight was another big UCLA transfer this offseason.

Another intriguing transfer was Davis. He comes over from South Alabama after being a 2024 All Conference selection. Davis slides in at the left tackle position and will be the blind side protector. Standing at 6’5 and 305 pounds, he provides good size and agility. Something that will be needed and has been lacked the last two years. Chesney was able to get him later in the transfer portal, which was a big pick up. Pairing with Schmidt to possibly man the other outside edge on the right. Who brings over a ton of experience from Boise State

Lastly, there were not too many players UCLA would have liked to keep from last year. But Brooks was the highlight on the offensive line. UCLA was able to get him back and that was huge. He graded out as one of the better offensive linemen in the Big Ten. Being a rising star and someone that was dependable. The trenches are one of the most important parts of the game. Chesney knows that and now he has set his quarterback and offense up for success.