Rodrick Pleasant was one of the few players that UCLA wanted to return from last year’s team. They received that good news early on in the transfer portal process. As Pleasant himself announced that he would stay at UCLA under Bob Chesney. It was seen as a huge announcement, considering he was one of the more under the radar players in the nation. Helping UCLA have a good pass defense in 2025 and one of the few bright spots in a tough season.
Most forced incompletions, Big Ten CBs:
— Cam Mellor (@CamMellor) November 19, 2025
Rodrick Pleasant, UCLA: 9
Zeke Berry, Michigan: 9
Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State: 8
TJ Hall, Iowa: 8
Jyaire Hill, Michigan: 8
Ephesians Prysock, Washington: 8
Brandon Finney Jr., Oregon: 7
D'Angelo Ponds, Indiana: 7
Andre Jordan Jr., UCLA:… pic.twitter.com/i8bVHsXdn7
Pleasant along with another returning defensive back in Cole Martin will be expected to be leaders on the defense. He plays very well in coverage and has flat out speed. He can keep up with speedy receivers and closing them very well and tackle. Not afraid to lower his shoulder and make a big hit. Pleasant will only continue to get better under Chesney and Colin Hitschler’s defensive system.
Many believed that Pleasant would hit the transfer portal as Demetrice Martin left for a new opportunity. He was a big reason why a lot of these defensive backs transferred to UCLA. Including his own son in Cole. Who also believed enough in UCLA’s system to stay and not follow his dad. Both players should have a great 2026 season mixing with the transfers that were brought in to help boost the talent.
Our @PFSNcollege highest-graded Big Ten CBs:
— Cam Mellor (@CamMellor) October 14, 2025
Brandon Finney Jr., Oregon: 90.3
TJ Hall, Iowa: 89.6
D'Angelo Ponds, Indiana: 89.4
Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State: 88.2
Ephesians Prysock, Washington: 88.2
John Nestor, Minnesota: 87.8
Ore Adeyi, Northwestern: 87.6
Rodrick Pleasant,… pic.twitter.com/5l0fDfP26Q
Pleasant on many metrics ranked as one of the best Big Ten cornerbacks. His 2026 season will get even better now that UCLA has upgraded their pass rush. Their defensive backs will not be left on islands for as long as they were in 2025. Pass rush and sack rate will improve everything which includes turnovers. Something that UCLA was at the bottom of the nation in. We expect Pleasant to get his first collegiate interception in 2026.
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