The UCLA Bruins reloaded through the transfer portal in 2025, bringing in one of the deepest and most talented groups in the Big Ten.
Deshaun Foster’s roster flipped in key spots, most notably at quarterback, in the secondary, and along the offensive line.
Here’s a ranking of the incoming transfers, from program-changers to depth players, with analysis on how each fits.
Ranking The UCLA Bruins 2025 Transfer Portal Class
1. Nico Iamaleava, QB (Tennessee)
The centerpiece of the class, Iamaleava finally gives the UCLA Bruins a true five-star quarterback to build around. His arm strength, creativity, and leadership instantly raise the Bruins’ ceiling on offense.
2. Jaivian Thomas, RB (Cal)
Thomas arrives as the UCLA Bruins’ new starting running back, filling the TJ Harden void. He’s undersized but explosive, and Foster’s offense will center around his ability to break runs in space.
3. Rodrick Pleasant, CB (Oregon)
One of the fastest players in the country, Pleasant brings elite speed and coverage ability. He should compete to be UCLA’s top corner by midseason.
4. Julian Armella, OT (Florida State)
A former five-star, Armella has the size and upside to anchor the offensive line. Protecting Nico was a priority, and Armella helps solve that.
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5. Mikey Matthews, WR (Cal)
Matthews is a quick, sure-handed slot receiver who thrives after the catch. He’ll be a reliable third-down target for Iamaleava.
6. Key Lawrence, S (Ole Miss)
Lawrence adds SEC-tested experience to the back end. He’s versatile enough to play deep or in the box and brings much-needed stability.
7. Robert Stafford, CB (Miami)
Stafford’s athleticism and length give the UCLA Bruins another starting-caliber corner. He pairs well with Pleasant to overhaul the secondary.
8. Eugene Brooks, IOL (Oklahoma)
Brooks brings size and toughness inside, ideal for Foster’s run-first approach. Expect him to push for a starting guard spot right away.
9. Courtland Ford, OT (Kentucky)
Ford provides more depth and experience at tackle. He’ll compete for a starting role and gives the UCLA Bruins flexibility up front.
10. Anthony Woods, RB (Idaho)
A steady, physical runner who complements Thomas. Woods can handle rotational carries to keep the backfield fresh. Last rushed for 1,155 yards in his last season with Idaho.
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11. Cole Martin, CB (Arizona State)
Martin projects best as a nickel defender with quickness and instincts. He strengthens UCLA’s coverage against slot-heavy Big Ten offenses.
12. Benjamin Perry, S (Louisville)
At 6-3, Perry is built to handle tight ends and bigger receivers. He adds length and versatility to the safety rotation.
13. Isaiah Chisom, LB (Oregon State)
Chisom is a young linebacker with speed and special teams value. He has starter upside down the road.
14. Jamier Johnson, CB (Indiana)
Johnson returns home to Pasadena with experience and leadership. He’ll provide depth in a crowded but talented corner group.
15. Nico Davillier, DL (Arkansas)
Davillier brings SEC experience to the defensive line rotation. He’s a physical piece who can plug gaps inside.
16. Andre Piper-Jordan Jr., CB (Oregon State)
Piper-Jordan adds more length to the corner room. Likely an early contributor on special teams.
17. Anthony Jones, EDGE (Michigan State)
Jones has size and length off the edge. He’ll rotate in as a developmental pass rusher.
18. Aaron Williams, CB (Louisville)
Williams has good upside but faces a logjam at corner. He’s more of a future piece than an immediate contributor.
19. Kechaun Bennett, EDGE (Michigan)
Bennett is a veteran edge with Big Ten experience. He adds depth and toughness on the defensive front.
20. Champ Sanders, DL (Oklahoma)
Sanders is a big body with long-term potential. He’ll likely rotate and develop behind the starters.
21. Jaedon Wilson, WR (Arkansas)
Wilson is a tall target who can help in the red zone. He gives UCLA another big-bodied receiver option.
22. Tai Marks, IOL (Tulsa)
Marks is a veteran lineman who adds depth on the interior. He’s reliable but not projected as a starter.
23. Scooter Jackson, CB (Utah Tech)
A developmental corner who may redshirt. His size and athleticism make him a project worth watching.
24. Jake Renda, TE (Pittsburgh)
Renda adds depth at tight end behind established options. He’s a reliable piece but unlikely to play a major role.
25. Kaiden Arnold, OT (Jacksonville State)
Arnold is massive at 6-7, 350, and still raw. He’s a developmental tackle for the future.
26. Cash Peterman, P (Arizona)
Peterman brings experience as a college punter. He’ll compete for the starting job with Brody Richter in the portal.
27. Will Karol, P (Tulane/ProKick Australia)
Karol arrives from ProKick Australia with a big leg. He creates a true punting competition for the Bruins.