Sahir West is tasked with fixing the Bruins rush rate and returning them to being a formidable unit

Sahir West is a big-time player that has a ton of talent. He was one of the premier prospects that Bob Chesney brought over from James Madison with him. West looks to be a key leader on rebuilding UCLA’s efforts to rush the quarterback. They were one of the worst teams in the nation at getting a rush rate and generating sacks in 2025. West will now be tasked with fixing a Bruins team that only had 10 sacks as a defense last season.

West was incredible for James Madison in 2025. He can get to the quarterback at a rapid pace and now looks to replicate the success at a larger school. UCLA plays far more talented teams than James Madison did. But we have seen many players come from smaller schools and be able to be successful. West looks to be the latest one to do so. Last season he had 14 tackles for loss and seven sacks.

The UCLA Bruins defensive line has been completely lost since the 2023 season. The year they had Laiatu Latu break out and become an All-American. Chesney is looking to change UCLA‘s fortunes and it begins with the front seven. They’re much more talented than they have been the last two years. Bringing in talent from power four schools such as Sammy Omosigho, Maxwell Roy and Tyson Ford. To pair along with two James Madison edge rushers in West and Aiden Gobaira.

UCLA should easily be able to hit their 10-sack total well before the middle of the season. They will be put in better positions and will get to the quarterback much quicker. That will make life easier on the defensive backs and force more turnovers. It all starts on the edge with West. As his game changing talent will be relied on to make plays for this defense. We're sure that his talent level will be able to succeed at UCLA. Proving to be a gem in this transfer portal class.