Returning players edition Cole Martin

Cole Martin initially entered the transfer portal at the conclusion of the 2025 season. Only to withdraw his name and announce his return to UCLA. Being a key piece of the UCLA defensive backfield last year. His return is seen as a good thing with Rodrick Pleasant and Scooter Jackson also returning to the fold. With many transfer additions also coming in. UCLA seems poised to have a much better defense in 2026. With the most important part being generating pressure on the quarterback. Making life easier for corners and safeties.

Martin was a surprising return to UCLA. As many expected him to leave after his dad Demetrice Martin departed. Known as “Coach Meat” he was responsible for bringing in a lot of transfer defensive backs last season. Which was their best position on either side of the football in 2025. They played very well despite being put in tough situations. Now, with a better coaching staff and more talent to show, we will now get to see the progression that the team makes.

With 41 transfers incoming for the 2026 season plus new recruits. UCLA will have a brand-new look for this upcoming season. But they will also have a good mixture of consistency with players returning. The players that did return were ones that you wanted to see. Including Pleasant, Jackson, Eugene Brooks and Nico Iamaleava. Martin adds to that list and shows upside to continue progressing into a good college football player.

Martin had 65 tackles and three passes defended in the 2025 season. The hope is that those tackle numbers will go down. But more turnovers and passes defended will be created. The high tackle number proves running backs getting too far up the field often. UCLA’s front seven will be much better with guys like Aiden Gobaira and Sahir West coming in. Martin is another guy that can provide versatility and Colin Hitschler will get the best out of him moving around.