Rodrick Pleasant has a high ceiling with Bob Chesney now in place as head coach

Rodrick Pleasant had a good season for the Bruins in 2025. It was his first season with UCLA after coming over from Oregon. The defensive backs in general were a bright spot for the Bruins. Although they gave up quite a few yards, they were put in very tough positions. Often holding up well for what they were given. Pleasant player good fluid coverage, even though there were not any turnovers to show for it. He showed up on Big Ten leaders on a weekly basis for his catch rate.

Pleasant is a player that should get even better under Bob Chesney. Chesney preaches defense and has coached some very good teams. It is a full belief that he can turn around this UCLA team after going out and getting 41 transfers. Keeping Pleasant was a big story, as there were rumors that he was going to leave after Demetrice Martin didn’t return. Martin was a big reason why they got a lot of transfers in the defensive backfield.

Martin left for Arizona State this past offseason. But the Bruins were able to keep his son Cole Martin, Scooter Jackson and Pleasant. Three defensive backs that played good football last year. With all three returning it gives the Bruins some stability. Now they look to continue their great play under a new coaching staff that will put them in better positions. Those positions include getting pressure on the quarterback and generating a rush rate.

Rush rate and sacks will lead to more turnovers for the defense. That was two areas that the Bruins were one of the worst in the nation at. Transfers such as Sahir West, Tyson Ford, Sammy Omosigho and Maxwell Roy will help at. Pleasant will be put in better positions than last year. That will only boost his confidence and his play at the cornerback position. Proving to be a vital part for this Bruins team. Which will pay off in the Bruins decision to be able to bring him back for another season.