Rodrick Pleasant returning to the Bruins next season

Rodrick Pleasant announced that he will be returning to UCLA next season. He was the Bruins best defensive back in 2025 him returning is a huge boost to the defensive backfield. Bob Chesney in the last three days has now seen him and Cole Martin back for next season. The two best players the Bruins had on the back end. It was a possession that played the best out of the Bruins defense last year. With UCLA not being able to generate any pressure on the quarterback. A lot of stress was put on the DB’s and they held up well under the circumstances.

Pleasant played very well in coverage. You often didn’t hear his name a lot of games because quarterbacks would attack other matchups. He was one of the mini transfers that came in last season to play for Demetrice Martin nicknamed Coach Meat. It was uncertain who all would return after his departure. Cole, who is his son, announced his return on Wednesday and now Pleasant does the same to provide some stability. After an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention season in 2025.

Now the work begins on building the trenches up front. All of the defensive backs will benefit from pressure being put on the quarterback. More turnovers will be forced, and defenders will not have to cover for as long. UCLA would hold up well for the first three to four seconds of a play. But when you ask a defense to cover for longer it gets difficult. Penalties are forced and guys get tired. Third downs really hurt UCLA last year.

Pleasant is one of the fastest players in college football. He ran a 10.14 second meter dash in high school. While he only stands at 5’10 and 170 pounds that speed cannot be taught and helps him keep up with outside and slot receivers. He uses good hip technique to be fluid in and out of routes with receivers. This is a huge get in keeping him with UCLA. Chesney is a defensive guy, and we believe he will help unlock another level on Pleasant.