Cole Martin will be expected to be a leader on the UCLA defense in 2026. The returning defensive back returns after being one of the best players on the defense in 2025. After an offseason that saw him, enter the transfer portal and his dad leave for a new job. It was shocking to see him return to the team. But was a welcome return because of his ability to tackle and make plays.
Cole Martin said his first encounter with head coach Bob Chesney sealed the deal to return to #UCLA. "Coach Chesney is just different." https://t.co/8tl6ToLCGc
— Bruin Report Online (@BruinReport) April 11, 2026
The defensive backfield was a bright spot for the Bruins in 2025. In a season that did not see many positives, they held up very well and along with Rodrick Pleasant, Martin was a big reason for that. With a defensive minded head coach and Bob Chesney, the sky is the ceiling for him, taking his game to the next level. That was a big reason why Martin returned and has the ability to have a huge impact on this team.
Martin has two years of eligibility remaining, with UCLA being his third college team. He had recently played at Oregon and Arizona State. As he played under his dad Demetrice Martin who is known as Coach Meat. He left for a new opportunity at Arizona State and not retained under Chesney’s staff. Cole decided to stay at UCLA after his initial entering of the transfer portal.
Spark plug 🔌⚡️
— UCLA Football (@UCLAFootball) November 23, 2025
Cole Martin snags his first interception as a Bruin!#GoBruins | @colemartin21 pic.twitter.com/Zxk9OEJ80y
Martin as a redshirt sophomore last season had 65 total tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss. He also added an interception which he returned for 27 yards. He is a versatile player that can move around the defense and is very good at tackling. Chesney and Colin Hitschler have the ability to move him in different positions based on offensive looks. We expect him to have a really good season and thrive in a leadership role for the younger guys.
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