The 2026 season is just weeks away from beginning but Bob Chesney and the UCLA Bruins are still adding to their roster. On Sunday, UCLA earned a commitment from James Madison linebacker Trent Hendrick, giving the Bruins another experienced linebacker in the middle of their defense.
Not only did Hendrick star last year with JMU, he played in the NFL this summer, attending rookie minicamps with the Cleveland Browns and the Kansas City Chiefs before a Louisiana court decision granted him another year of eligibility, which opened the door for Hendrick to return to college football.
Hendrick then jumped into the portal and a move to Los Angeles with the Bruins made the most sense. The familiarity with Chesney and his staff will make the transition back to college football much easier for Hendrick, who could be starting at linebacker on September 5th when UCLA’s season kicks off against Cal.
Hendrick spent four seasons at James Madison, playing in 49 career games. In 2025, Hendrick was named the Sun Belt Conference’s Defensive Player of the Year, making 106 total tackles, with three sacks, two forced fumbles and seven tackles for losses.
All of the sudden, UCLA’s linebacker depth is looking quite good. The Bruins had already added Sammy Omosigho in the portal this offseason, with Omosigho quickly stepping into a leadership role on the defense in his first year with the program. UCLA also has Jalen Woods, Drew Spinogatti and Donovyn Pellot to round out their group.
After a weak defense in 2025, UCLA could field a competetive unit this season, with Hendrick set to play a large role this year for the Bruins.
This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: UCLA adds James Madison linebacker Trent Hendrick from the portal
Reporting by Dylan McNeill, UCLA Wire / UCLA Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Dylan McNeill, UCLA Wire | USA TODAY Network
