UCLA Bruins Shine in Athlon’s Preseason All‑Big Ten Teams

UCLA entered the 2026 campaign with a revamped roster, and the excitement is reflected on the preseason All‑Big Ten lists. Athlon Sports named five Bruins across four teams, giving fans a look at the players expected to make an impact in the conference. While the Big Ten boasts 156 preseason selections, the Bruins’ five representatives form a solid core for the new-look squad.

Five Bruins Earn All‑Big Ten Honors

The preseason announcement spotlights a mix of transfer talent and homegrown potential. Wayne Knight, a dual‑return specialist from James Madison, appears on the second‑team all‑purpose roster and the third‑team punt return unit. Incoming defensive lineman Sahir West, also from JMU, cracks the third‑team defensive line after a breakout freshman season. Eugene Brooks, a redshirt sophomore who moved from Oklahoma, lands on the fourth‑team offensive line. Meanwhile, linebacker Sammy Omosigho and cornerback Rodrick Pleasant—both recent Oklahoma transfers—join the fourth‑team defensive squads.

Wayne Knight: Second‑Team All‑Purpose Star

Knight’s versatility made him a standout on Athlon’s second‑team all‑purpose list. He compiled over 1,700 yards from scrimmage and scored 10 touchdowns for James Madison last season. Knight also contributed 180 yards on punt returns and added another 89 yards on kick returns, earning a rare two‑time preseason nod for the Bruins.

Sahir West: Third‑Team Defensive Lineman

West arrived from James Madison as a freshman and was named Sun Belt Freshman of the Year. He recorded seven sacks and forced a fumble in 2025, setting the stage for a potential role as a disruptive force for UCLA’s defense. Coach Chip Kelly hopes West can continue his aggressive pass‑rush style in the Big Ten.

Eugene Brooks: Building Block on the Offensive Line

Brooks started 11 games for the Bruins after transferring from Oklahoma, showcasing his capacity to handle the rigors of Big Ten competition. As a redshirt sophomore, he is viewed as a foundational piece for UCLA’s offensive line buildup. His experience and athleticism are expected to bolster the Brookins’ ground attack in 2026.

Sammy Omosigho: Fourth‑Team Linebacker

Omosigho came to UCLA from Oklahoma with 50 tackles recorded in his final season with the Sooners. He is gearing up for his first year with the Bruins and brings a strong tackling presence to the linebacker spot. His ability to generate consistent stop rates could become a key element of UCLA’s defensive identity.

Rodrick Pleasant: Speed‑y Fourth‑Team Cornerback

Pleasant’s top‑speed credentials landed him the title of the fastest player in EA Sports’ College Football 27, and he also earned a preseason All‑Conference berth. The cornerback posted an All‑Big Ten Honorable Mention performance in his freshman season with UCLA, raising expectations for his sophomore campaign. His deep threat and defensive versatility are anticipated to sharpen under Chip Kelly’s system.

The collection of five All‑Big Ten selections underscores UCLA’s progress as it prepares for the 2026 season. With a blend of transfer firepower and emerging talent, the Bruins are positioned to contend for conference respect.