Scooter Jackson's return helps the secondary

Scooter Jackson was another Bruin that decided it was best to stay with UCLA. After initially hitting the transfer portal, Jackson announced on Wednesday he will return. Taking his name out of the portal and adding another veteran defensive back to Bob Chesney’s group. Jackson led the team with two interceptions last year. What is more impressive is that was half of the entire total of the team. The Bruins all season long had four interceptions. Jackson played a key role in the defensive backfield.

The Bruins struggled last season on both sides of the ball. But the defensive backs were a bright spot on the team. They held up very well, even with the team, not being able to generate a pass rush. Putting them in tough spots but they still managed well. It will only go up from here as the new staff brings in people to shore up the trenches. The quicker you can get to the quarterback, the more mistakes you can force them into. That is the focus that Chesney will look to do and turn this around.

Jackson’s interception this past season in the Maryland game was a very important one. Without that interception, the Bruins might not win. That led to them hitting a three-game winning streak and moving to 3-4 on the season. After starting 0-4 and seeing them dismiss their head coach in Deshaun Foster after their third game. Jackson also had 44 tackles on the season to go along with four pass breakups. The future beyond this season is uncertain, but he has two years of eligibility to his name left in college.

Jackson spent two seasons at Utah Tech before ultimately landing at UCLA last season. He is 6’1 and 185 pounds. Which is perfect for him to move around for Chesney and Colin Hitschler. You can put him on the outside and know he can matchup with taller guys. Or you can put him on the inside and know he is fluid enough to keep up with slot receivers and even jam tight ends. This is an under the radar move that they were able to get this to happen. Jackson and Rodrick Pleasant were possibly the two best defensive backs on the team last year. Now UCLA has their commitment for 2026.