UCLA continued their dominance of the 2027 early recruiting class. They were able to go into the state of Colorado and get the No. 1 ranked player in the state in Jackson Roper. Beating out the likes of Texas A&M, Ohio State, Michigan and USC for the offensive lineman from Cherry Creek. That in itself is quite the sentence, to be out those types of schools for a recruit. The vibes at UCLA are incredible right now and they’re putting the country on notice.
BREAKING: Four-Star IOL Jackson Roper has Committed to UCLA, he tells me for @Rivals⁰⁰The 6’5 315 IOL chose the Bruins over Michigan, Texas A&M, Auburn, and Ohio State
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) May 1, 2026
“Once a Bruin, always a Bruin - I’m Home!”https://t.co/HqYTy3CoS3 pic.twitter.com/Puz669X1Es
It is no secret that UCLA’s offensive line struggled in 2025. They went out in the transfer portal and really upgraded the entire line this offseason and will have a whole new unit. With only Eugene Brooks returning to his spot. Which is actually a positive since Brooks was the best player for them in 2025. They will definitely be much better in protecting Nico Iamaleava in 2026.
Now being able to get Roper to commit to the school. It allows the Bruins to start creating long-term consistency and not just a one-year fix. This is a tremendous addition to this team. Showing that Bob Chesney is completely changing the dynamic of this program on offense and defense. The rebuild for this team to get back to being a contender is being accelerated by their recruiting efforts.
The top 2027 prospect in Colorado is offensive lineman Jackson Roper 6‘5“ 305 Greenwood Village Cherry Creek HS. Superior athlete with enormous strength, quick feet and who plays a very physical game. Dominates as a run blocker. Can play all 5 OL spots.@JacksonRoper_CO pic.twitter.com/kNf0rgdFn9
— Tom Lemming (@LemmingReport) October 22, 2025
Roper is the No. 9 ranked interior offensive lineman in the country and should provide value right away for the team. He also plays defensive line and is very good at that position. But his long-term outlook is going to be as an interior offensive lineman. Very physical and able to use his hands very well. Stands at 6’5 and 305 pounds and will continue to bulk up a little bit more once he gets to college. Tremendous opportunity to get a multi-year starter here.
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