UCLA and USC football transfer portal tracker: Who’s in and who’s out?

Previous schools: South Alabama, South Carolina

Size: 6-5, 305

Year in 2026: Graduate transfer

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: Filling UCLA’s last major need as a likely starter at left tackle, Davis started almost every game for South Alabama over the last three seasons. He spent the two previous seasons at South Carolina, not appearing in any games, allowing him to apply for a medical hardship waiver that is expected to provide one more season of eligibility.

Previous school: Oklahoma

Size: 6-1, 235

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: A former four-star high school prospect, Omosigho totaled 97 tackles over three seasons as a Sooner and started three games as a sophomore in 2024. His best season came in 2025, Omosigho logging 50 tackles — including 4 ½ for loss and two sacks — along with three pass breakups and one fumble recovery.

Previous school: Arizona State

Size: 6-3, 305

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: A three-star prospect out of St. John Bosco High, Na’a started seven games as a freshman at Arizona State in 2023, becoming one of 20 true freshmen in the Football Bowl Subdivision to play 400-plus snaps that season. After being limited to five games by injury as a sophomore, Na’a played a reserve role last season in his return.

Previous schools: Utah Tech, Brigham Young

Size: 6-2, 250

Year in 2026: Redshirt sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: Havea becomes the latest member of a growing Utah Tech-to-UCLA pipeline, joining defensive backs Tao Johnson and Scooter Jackson. He was productive in his only season at Utah Tech, playing in every game and starting six of the last eight games. He made 43 tackles — six for loss, including five sacks — to go with two pass breakups, three quarterback hurries and one fumble recovery.

Previous school: Ohio State

Size: 6-2, 200

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: Hartford brings championship experience, having played in every game of the Buckeyes’ run to the 2024 national title. A shoulder injury requiring surgery limited him to four games last season. In parts of three seasons, Hartford tallied 20 tackles and three pass breakups. His pedigree makes him a strong candidate to start immediately as a Bruin.

Previous school: Eastern Michigan

Size: 6-8, 315

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of eligibility: Three

Buzz: Indestad indicated in his Twitter bio that he has three years of remaining eligibility, meaning he’s likely secured injury waivers after having not played during two seasons and being limited to five games last season. In 2024, his most productive season, Indestad played in eight games, starting five.

Previous schools: California, Notre Dame

Size: 6-5, 300

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: A four-star high school prospect out of St. Louis, Ford spent his first two college seasons at Notre Dame and played sparingly before transferring to Cal. After his start to the 2025 season was delayed by injury, Ford appeared in the final seven games, making three tackles.

Former school: Memphis

Size: 6-3, 190

Year in 2026: Sophomore

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Three years

Buzz: With Sam Johnson graduating, USC was in the market for a punter. It found one from Down Under. Carrigan is the first Aussie punter to join the Trojans since Aadyn Sleep-Dalton in 2023. As a freshman, he averaged 43.2 yards per punt, a full yard better than Johnson last season at USC. No word on his fake-punt jersey deception skills.

Former school: Penn State

Size: 6-3, 259

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: One year

Buzz: USC’s pass rush was definitely better last season, but there was still plenty of room for improvement. Fisher, as a sixth-year senior, should help bring out the best in Braylan Shelby and Kameryn Fountain, who are both facing critical seasons. But he’s also no slouch as a pass rusher himself. His 30 pressures last season at Penn State would have led all of USC’s defense.

Former school: Michigan State

Size: 6-3, 295

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: One year

Buzz: USC was in desperate need of experienced depth on the interior, and VanSumeren gives the Trojans just that. He started on the interior of Michigan State’s defense for the past two seasons and steps into a similar role immediately for USC. VanSumeren isn’t much of a pass rush threat, but ranked 16th in the Big Ten among interior defenders in stop percentage in 2025 and should represent a notable upgrade for USC’s run defense.

Previous school: Ohio State

Size: 6-3, 301

Year in 2026: Redshirt freshman

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Four

Buzz: A four-star high school prospect out of Philadelphia, Roy did not appear in a game last season for the Buckeyes. He had been a member of the 247Sports “freaks” list in high school while competing as an All-American wrestler and throwing events in track and field in addition to starring in football.

Previous school: Fullerton College

Size: 6-6, 330

Year in 2026: Sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: A graduate of Dorsey High, McDonald gets to stay home while moving up considerably in the college football landscape. He has the size to compete for a coveted spot at tackle.

Previous school: Washington

Size: 6-1, 190

Year in 2026: Redshirt freshman

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Four

Buzz: The Bruins are getting a former Mater Dei High star with plenty of upside after Harris redshirted last season at Washington, making his collegiate debut during the team’s L.A. Bowl victory over Boise State. As a senior in high school, Harris caught 28 passes for 459 yards to help lead the Monarchs to a 12-0 record and a Southern Section Division I championship.

Previous school: Sam Houston

Size: 6-1, 190

Year in 2026: Sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: The Bruins have apparently traded one Australian punter for another after losing Will Karoll and gaining Gerrand, a native of Melbourne who had a strong debut college season in 2025. He averaged 43 yards per punt, including six of at least 50 yards and 22 that he downed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line.

Previous school: James Madison

Size: 6-3, 269

Year in 2026: Redshirt sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: In his Twitter bio, West calls himself the “Sackmaster.” He’s not exaggerating. During James Madison’s Sun Belt Conference championship victory over Troy, West was a singular nemesis with 10 tackles, including 5½ for loss and three sacks, to go with a forced fumble. Each of those totals represented a career high. For the season, West logged 45 tackles — 14 for loss, including seven sacks — and four pass breakups along with that forced fumble. Those numbers helped make West a first team freshman All-American selection by The Athletic and the Sun Belt freshman of the year. West immediately projects as a starter and top playmaker for the Bruins, who struggled to put pressure on the quarterback last season but now have a key James Madison transfer on defense to go with former Dukes star running back Wayne Knight.

Previous school: South Carolina

Size: 5-11, 170

Year in 2026: Sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: Rowe immediately impressed in his first college season, earning four starts while playing in 11 of 12 games for the Gamecocks. He caught 19 passes for 149 yards and a touchdown. Showing versatility, he also ran three times for eight yards and completed a 21-yard pass on a trick play against Texas A&M.

Previous school: Connecticut

Size: 5-9, 175

Year in 2026: Sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: After shunning offers from Indiana, Georgia and Florida State to play for coach Jim Mora at Connecticut, Gilbert made a great first impression by collecting 19 tackles and three pass deflections in his first college season.

Previous school: Kansas State

Size: 6-5, 230

Year in 2026: Graduate transfer

Seasons of eligibility remaining: One

Buzz: Loftin brings considerable experience to Westwood, having been a regular part of Kansas State’s offense in each of the past two years. Last season, he made six catches for 55 yards. In 2024, he made 11 catches for 125 yards and two touchdowns.

Previous school: Montana State

Size: 5-9, 157

Year in 2026: Redshirt sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: McMillan arrives with championship pedigree, having blocked a late field-goal attempt in the Football Championship Subdivision title game to help Montana State reach overtime during an eventual victory over Illinois State. Bobcats coach Brent Vigen called McMillan “probably our fastest guy,” speed that McMillan put to good use in finishing the season with 39 tackles — two for losses — to go with a fumble recovery and three pass breakups.

Previous school: Notre Dame

Size: 6-3, 240

Year in 2026: Redshirt freshman

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Four

Buzz: Rated as a four-star prospect out of high school by ESPN and Rivals, Sacca did not play in his only season with the Fighting Irish. But he arrives in Westwood as an intriguing addition to a defense in need of playmakers. He also has a strong football pedigree; his father, Tony Sacca, having played quarterback for Penn State before being drafted in the second round by the Arizona Cardinals.

Previous school: Texas Tech

Size: 6-2, 270

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: Washington played sparingly during an injury-plagued 2025, making seven tackles — one for loss — to go with a quarterback hurry. The previous season, he started at both edge rusher and linebacker, making 10 tackles. In 2023, he emerged as a potential star by making four tackles — all for loss, including two sacks — while also forcing a fumble during a victory over California in the Independence Bowl.

Previous school: Boston College

Size: 6-2, 228

Year in 2026: Redshirt freshman

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Four

Buzz: A native of Oxnard who starred at Oaks Christian High, Amar will be coming home to play for the Bruins after one season on the East Coast. He played in three games with the Eagles last season, primarily on special teams, and preserved a redshirt season. Amar joins a thin tight ends group that needs restocking after multiple departures.

Size: 6-4, 210

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: An honorable mention All-Big Ten selection in his one season as a Bruin, Karoll averaged 43.5 yards per punt, with eight going for 50 or more yards and 13 downed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line. Karoll also served as the team’s primary holder on field goals and extra points over the first five games of the season. The Australian native came to UCLA from Tulane, where he had been the Green Wave’s starting punter during the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

Previous school: Utah

Size: 6-1, 200

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: Johnson started 34 games over the last three seasons with the Utes, including 22 games at safety and 12 at nickelback. Last season, he made 48 tackles — 2½ for loss — to go with two interceptions and four passes broken up. Johnson arrived at Utah as a wide receiver before making the switch to defense.

Previous school: Cal Poly

Size: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: Dieffenbach will provide necessary depth at quarterback after the departures of multiple players. Last season, as Cal Poly’s starter, Dieffenbach completed 56.8% of his passes for 1,305 yards and nine touchdowns with nine interceptions. He also ran for 321 yards and four touchdowns. A native of Calabasas who played at Agoura High, Dieffenbach spent his first two college seasons at Pittsburgh but did not record any statistics. He had started his high school career as a wide receiver before moving to quarterback as a sophomore.

Previous school: James Madison

Size: 6-1, 327

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: A third-team All-Sun Belt Conference selection last season, Sweazie started every game at left guard while helping the Dukes reach the College Football Playoff. He had been a part-time starter in each of the previous two seasons and should compete for a starting spot with the Bruins.

Previous schools: Rutgers, James Madison

Size: 6-2, 298

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: DeNgohe will reunite with new UCLA coach Bob Chesney after having played for him in 2024 at James Madison. DeNgohe went on to spend the 2025 season at Rutgers, where he made seven tackles in four games while being limited by injuries. The previous season, DeNgohe played in every game and made 28 tackles — six for loss — to go with a sack and a blocked kick.

New school: Penn State

Size: 6-4, 310

Year in 2026: Graduate transfer

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: Taupaki will reunite with former UCLA defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe in State College, Pa., as part of an improbable journey that will include an eighth season of eligibility. Taupaki redshirted in 2019 before the COVID-19 season in 2020 did not count against his eligibility clock. In each of the next two seasons, Taupaki utilized a redshirt granted via injury waiver before playing in each of the last three seasons. In 2025, playing mostly as a reserve, Taupaki collected 15 tackles — two for loss — and one sack to go with a fumble recovery. He also contributed on field goal block and punt return units and memorably served as an offensive blocker in goal-line situations in two games.

Previous school: Saddleback College

Size: 6-3, 280

Year in 2026: Sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: Blum is taking a major step up in the level of competition after his first college season, going from the Southern League to the Big Ten to help the Bruins at a position of need. His 2025 was certainly productive, Blum tallying 35 tackles — 10 for loss — 5½ sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery on the way to being named an All-American All-California Region III first-team selection by the California Community College Football Coaches Assn.

Previous schools: Oklahoma State, UCLA

Size: 6-4, 205

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: Barry is taking a rare path, leaving one school for another only to return the following season. After losing his job as UCLA’s punter to Brody Richter early in the 2024 season while maintaining his role as the primary holder on field goals and extra points, Barry played even less at Oklahoma State, appearing in just one game. That precipitated a return to Westwood, where he’ll compete with Will Karoll to regain the job he once had as the team’s punter.

When Husan Longstreet arrived at USC a year ago, the expectation was the five-star freshman would be the Trojans’ future at quarterback.

But after just one season at USC, Longstreet is leaving.

Longstreet entered the NCAA transfer portal Thursday, throwing the Trojans’ future plans at football’s most important position into question. USC has just three quarterbacks on the roster, one a freshman in Jonas Williams.

However, there’s no doubt who will remain USC’s quarterback next season. Returning starter Jayden Maiava, who led the Big Ten in passing yards last season (3,711), announced last month that he will play another season at USC instead of declaring for the NFL draft.

Size: 6-3, 195

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: The son of former Stanford coach David Shaw, Carter was hampered by injuries recently, his 2024 season cut short by an injury that also sidelined him for the first half of 2025. Carter Shaw showed some promise early in the 2024 season, making two catches for 45 yards and rushing twice for nine yards. In six games last season, he assisted on two tackles while playing special teams but did not make a catch in his time as a receiver.

Previous school: Harvard

Size: 6-4, 305

Year in 2026: Graduate transfer

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: UCLA has had previous success with transfers from Harvard. In 2022, defensive lineman Jacob Sykes was a mainstay who was named first team All-Pac-12 by Pro Football Focus after spending his first four college seasons with the Crimson. Osman was an honorable mention All-Ivy League selection last season after playing in every game and helping Harvard reach the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs.

Previous schools: James Madison, Holy Cross

Size: 6-0, 228

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: This will be Spinogatti’s third stop playing for coach Bob Chesney after following him from Holy Cross to James Madison to UCLA. Spinogatti has already shown an ability to perform at a high level in the Football Bowl Subdivision after making 55 tackles — including 7½ for loss — as a part-time starter in his only season with the Dukes. He also made one sack, broke up three passes and recovered two fumbles, returning one for a touchdown. In his second and final season at Holy Cross, Spinogatti started every game and made 71 tackles — including 6½ for loss — to go with one forced fumble and a pass breakup.

Previous school: James Madison

Size: 5-6, 189

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: Packing plenty of talent into his tiny frame, Knight could deliver a huge payoff for the Bruins next season after becoming the most high-profile transfer portal acquisition under new coach Bob Chesney. Making a strong case as the best all-around player in the Sun Belt Conference, Knight rushed for 1,373 yards and nine touchdowns last season while also making 40 catches for 397 yards and a touchdown to go with his averages of 22.3 yards on kickoff returns and 9.5 yards on punt returns. Knight’s 2,039 all-purpose yards were a school record and earned him Associated Press second team All-American all-purpose honors. Perhaps most importantly, Knight showed he could thrive against top competition, rushing for 110 yards against Oregon in the College Football Playoff after having rushed for a career-high 211 yards against Troy in the Sun Belt championship game.

UCLA Sports

UCLA lands a top transfer in James Madison running back Wayne Knight

UCLA lands James Madison running back Wayne Knight, a major addition for the Bruins via the transfer portal.

Jan. 7, 2026

Previous school: Michigan

Size: 5-10, 174

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: As one of the Wolverines’ most versatile players, Morgan caught passes, threw passes, ran the ball and returned punts and kickoffs. Last season, he made 20 catches for 223 yards and a touchdown, threw two passes and ran five times for 25 yards. He also returned 12 kickoffs for 186 yards and returned 13 punts for 30 yards.

Previous schools: James Madison, Richmond

Size: 6-1, 212

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: As the leading receiver for James Madison last season, Ellis made 36 catches for 624 yards and five touchdowns, including a memorable 50-yard catch against Oregon in the College Football Playoff. He finished that game with three catches for 83 yards and was a third team All-Sun Belt Conference selection. Ellis came to James Madison after spending the previous two seasons at Richmond, where he made 50 catches for 588 yards and four touchdowns in 2024. It’s probably safe to pencil in Ellis as an immediate starter for UCLA in 2026.

Previous schools: San Jose State, Purdue, Fullerton College

Size: 6-4, 215

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: A native of Houston, Smith attended Fullerton College as a freshman before going on to spend one season each at Purdue and San Jose State. His best season came with the Spartans in 2025, when he made a career-high 43 catches for 688 yards and three touchdowns on the way to becoming an honorable mention All-Mountain West Conference selection. Smith appeared in every game for Purdue in 2024, making six catches for 72 yards and two touchdowns.

Previous school: Florida

Size: 6-1, 185

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: A part-time starter in each of the last two seasons, Mizell was a player on the rise at the end of 2025, starting each of the last three games. For the season, he made 19 catches for 177 yards and one touchdown. Mizell showed an ability to make huge plays in 2024, becoming one of seven receivers in the Southeastern Conference to have two touchdown catches covering at least 41 yards. A four-star prospect out of high school, Mizell redshirted during the 2023 season and would project as a likely starter for the Bruins.

Previous school: James Madison

Size: 5-7, 180

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: A full-time starter over the last two seasons, Barksdale earned third-team All-Sun Belt Conference honors in 2025 after logging 36 tackles — three for loss — to go with two interceptions and 12 pass breakups. Barksdale played both cornerback and nickel back with the Dukes and also returned kickoffs, displaying tremendous versatility. He figures to challenge for an immediate starting role with the Bruins given their many losses in the secondary.

Previous school: Iowa State

Size: 6-1, 215

Year in 2026: Redshirt sophomore

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Three

Buzz: As a backup for the Cyclones, Lee rushed for 117 yards and a touchdown in 25 carries last season, including an 81-yard performance against South Dakota. Given the Bruins’ lack of proven depth at the position, he’ll likely be given an opportunity for a far larger role in 2026.

Size: 6-5, 258

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: Phifer owns the distinction of being able to say he signed for Curt Cignetti at James Madison, went to the College Football Playoff with the Dukes under Bob Chesney and followed Chesney to UCLA as part of the Bruins’ rebuilding plan. It could be a winning trifecta if Phifer builds off his production from 2025, when he caught four passes for 40 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown against Texas State. Phifer also possesses the size to be a significant part of the Bruins’ blocking efforts next season.

Size: 6-1, 195

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: Clarkson spent almost all of last season embroiled in controversy after he was arrested on suspicion of felony assault in September, leading to his suspension from the team. His case was later referred to the Los Angeles City Attorney’s office for a procedure that provided the opportunity to resolve the situation without a criminal filing should he satisfy certain conditions. The son of famed quarterbacks guru Steve Clarkson, Pierce starred at St. John Bosco High before spending his first two college seasons at Louisville — appearing in three games as a backup — and last spring at Mississippi. His departure leaves starter Nico Iamaleava; backups Madden Iamaleava and Colton Gumino; and incoming freshman DJ Bordeaux as the only quarterbacks on UCLA’s roster.

Previous school: Boise State

Size: 6-7, 308

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: Schmidt started every game at right tackle in 2024 for the Broncos, helping them reach the College Football Playoff, before being limited to two games last season after undergoing surgery. Before his injury, Schmidt was a crucial part of an offensive line that helped Boise State rush for 3,365 yards — the most since the school reached the Football Bowl Subdivision level. He gave up just one sack in 329 opportunities during 2024.

Size: 6-5, 250

Year in 2026: Redshirt sophomore

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Three

Buzz: Olsen arrived at USC at the same time as two other highly touted tight ends, Walker Lyons, who had been on a mission the previous year, and Walter Matthews. Of those three, Olsen had so far gotten the least run. He played just four snaps this season and was targeted just one time. He definitely looks the part and has the pedigree as a former four-star recruit. But for whatever reason, it never worked in Riley’s offense.

Size: 5-9, 190

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Two

Buzz: After following his young brother — five-star quarterback Husan — to USC, Longstreet’s decision to leave seems to portend a departure for his brother too. Kevin Longstreet did manage to earn a place in USC’s secondary rotation early in the season but didn’t play on defense after Week 5.

Size: 5-9, 195

Year in 2026: Sophomore

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Three

Buzz: Johnson began his freshman season as a versatile defensive back and ended it in the Trojans’ backfield. It takes an extraordinary athlete to pull off both as an 18-year old, and Lincoln Riley and his staff, at one point, saw Johnson as a part of the defense’s long-term plans. Maybe those feelings changed during his late-season position switch. Regardless, USC is losing an athlete that could have probably fit in somewhere on its defense.

Former school: North Carolina State

Size: 6-2, 204

Year in 2026: Junior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Two years

Buzz: One of the top available receivers in the transfer portal, Anderson gives USC a dynamic 1-2 punch along with rising sophomore Tanook Hines. He has the versatility to play inside and outside and gives USC some added size and deep-threat ability. Anderson has to prove himself as a true difference-maker, but at N.C. State, the feeling was that day was coming soon. His yards per route run (2.23) as a sophomore was not that far off from what the guy he’s replacing, Ja’Kobi Lane, produced last season (2.46), and he should get more chances down the field in USC’s offense.

Previous schools: James Madison, Notre Dame

Size: 6-4, 254

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: Persevering through a long layoff after redshirting in 2022 and suffering a preseason injury in 2023 that forced him to miss the next two seasons, Gobaira played in every game in 2025, making one start. He finished with 38 tackles, including 7½ for loss, and four sacks to earn third-team All-Sun Belt Conference honors. Out of high school, Gobaira had been a four-star prospect who signed with Notre Dame but never played for the Fighting Irish before transferring to James Madison. Gobaira could conceivably petition for an additional season of eligibility given his injury history.

Previous school: James Madison

Size: 6-2, 290

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: After reportedly growing five inches and gaining 100 pounds while he was in high school, where he was a star wrestler and a two-way force on the offensive and defensive lines, Robell developed into one of the top offensive linemen in the Sun Belt Conference over his three seasons at James Madison. He played in every game last season, making 11 starts at right guard on the way to becoming a second team all-conference selection. According to Pro Football Focus, Robell allowed only 14 pressures and two sacks in 297 pass block snaps last season.

Previous school: Virginia Tech

Size: 6-0, 190

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: A part-time starter in 2024, Lovett played in the first three games this season before deciding to redshirt upon the firing of Virginia Tech coach Brent Pry in mid-September. Lovett played in every game during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, making a combined 30 tackles, seven pass breakups and one interception.

Previous school: Iowa State

Size: 6-1, 215

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: Limited to eight games by injury last season, James was productive when he did play, making 33 tackles and breaking up five passes. In 2024, while playing in all 14 games, he made 41 tackles, forced a fumble, recovered a fumble and broke up a pass.

Previous school: James Madison

Size: 6-4, 277

Year in 2026: Redshirt freshman

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Four

Buzz: While Rayner played in only one game for Bob Chesney as a freshman last season at James Madison, the new UCLA coach clearly believes in his potential. Rayner was rated as a three-star prospect out of high school, where he was a three-year starter and played every game at right tackle his senior season. Showing tremendous versatility, Rayner also played tight end and defensive line for teams that won three state championships in Massachusetts.

Previous school: California

Size: 6-3, 255

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: McCulloch will help fill a huge position of need for the Bruins in what amounts to a homecoming for the Arcadia native who once played at Rio Hondo Prep. He showed such promise during an injury-shortened 2025 season that Cal coach Justin Wilcox called him “one of the best players on the team.” Having played in only four games before being sidelined, McCulloch was able to use a redshirt season that will provide two more seasons of eligibility. In 2024, McCulloch tallied 18 tackles — including 4½ for loss — and three sacks. In high school, he was a rare three-sport standout, also playing basketball and baseball.

Size: 6-5, 305

Year in 2026: Redshirt freshman

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Four

Buzz: It was inevitable that one of the three touted offensive tackles in USC’s 2025 class were going to end up elsewhere, and Payne apparently is the one. Elijah Vaikona and Aaron Dunn carved out spots on the depth chart ahead of Payne, and now USC brings in the No. 1 offensive tackle prospect in the nation in Keenyi Pepe. Payne should easily be able to find a landing spot after being a top-150 recruit just last cycle.

Former schools: Iowa State

Size: 5-11, 200

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: One

Buzz: This is a huge coup for USC. Williams is the top-rated transfer option available, according to both 247 Sports and On3, at a position USC desperately needs to upgrade. In 2024, he tallied 48 tackles, picked off four passes and was an All-Big 12 selection. He sat out most of last season with a knee injury but should be ready to go by the start of the season. Expect him to take a starting corner spot, alongside Chasen Johnson or Marcelles Williams.

Former school: Washington

Size: 5-11, 234

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Two

Buzz: An already-thin room is losing its best player in Eric Gentry, meaning USC is looking even more vulnerable at linebacker. That’s where Bryant should help. He may not be a difference-maker, but Bryant was third on Washington’s defense in tackles last season, so he’s no slouch. A former St. John Bosco standout, Bryant has a chance to prove himself at a position where there will be ample opportunity.

Size: 6-2, 190

Year in 2026: Junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: Barring a change of heart, this one will hurt for the Bruins. Gilmer was easily the team’s top receiving target last season, combining speed with great hands and an ability to generate separation. His 50 catches for 535 yards and four touchdowns — all team highs — only partially reflected his value. Gilmer was the focus of every opposing secondary and immediately emerged as quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s top target. Joining a receiving corps with more talent could allow Gilmer to increase his production by allowing him to thrive against defenses not designed solely to stop him.

UCLA’s Isaiah Chisom pressures and tries to tackle Utah’s Devon Dampier at Rose Bowl Stadium on Aug. 30.

(Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images)

Size: 6-1, 235

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: Two

Buzz: Chisom was one of the most productive members of UCLA’s defense last season, finishing second on the team with 84 tackles — 2½ for loss — to go with two forced fumbles and one pass breakup. His 17 tackles against Utah in the season opener were the most by any Bruin in a game in 2025. Chisom had spent the 2024 season at Oregon State, making 75 tackles on the way to being named a member of the Athletic’s Freshman All-America Team.

USC quaterback Jayden Maiava is chased out of the pocket by UCLA defensive lineman Anthony Jones at the Coliseum on Nov. 29.

(Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times)

Size: 6-5, 265

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of remaining eligibility: One

Buzz: Unless he returns to UCLA in 2026, Jones will be headed to a fifth school in as many years after having played for the Bruins, Michigan State, Indiana and Oregon. He was perhaps the Bruins’ best pass rusher last season, logging a team-high four quarterback hurries while also tying for the team lead with 1½ sacks. His combination of size, speed and instincts should make him a coveted prospect.

Size: 6-3, 180

Year in 2026: Redshirt sophomore

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Three

Buzz: The son of former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, Henry never got to play in a game during his two seasons as a Bruin. His path to playing time in 2026 did not appear promising with both Nico and Madden Iamaleava returning as UCLA’s top two options at quarterback. But Hasselbeck displayed a strong arm and good accuracy during the portions of practice open to reporters, and his lineage as the son of a former three-time Pro Bowler who played in a Super Bowl makes him an intriguing prospect.

Size: 6-0, 190

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Two

Buzz: After entering UCLA as a walk-on, Clark earned a scholarship in the spring of 2024 before his next season was limited to just two games because of injury. Last season, as a part-time starter, Clark made 22 tackles — including one for a loss — forced a fumble and made two pass breakups. His best showing came in the crosstown rivalry game against USC, when Clark recorded a team-leading seven tackles and one pass breakup.

Size: 6-5, 320

Year in 2026: Graduate transfer

Seasons of eligibility remaining: One

Buzz: Having been granted a hardship waiver after being limited to only two games in 2024 because of an injury, Williams will have one final season of eligibility in 2026. He is coming off his most productive season, finishing with career highs in total tackles (39), assisted tackles (22) and solo tackles (17). Williams also contributed to one of Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza’s six interceptions when he tipped a pass from the Indiana quarterback that was corralled by UCLA defensive back Scooter Jackson.

Size: 6-6, 210

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Two

Buzz: Duncan filled in admirably when starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava was injured late in the season, showing promise during a spot start against Ohio State once the Bruins opened up the playbook a bit in the second half. On the season, Duncan made three appearances and completed 21 of 34 passes (61.8%) for 235 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. His size, strong arm and decisiveness make him an intriguing prospect for a team seeking a full-time starter.

Size: 6-4, 245

Year in 2026: Junior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Two

Buzz: An ascending talent at tight end, Lyons had carved out a sizable role as a sophomore as USC’s No. 2 tight end, which became critical to the Trojans’ playing more 12 personnel. Lyons caught 20 passes for 223 yards and two touchdowns in 2025 and was bound for a bigger role in 2026. But that wasn’t enough for Lyons to stick around. His departure now leaves USC without any proven players at tight end and could force the Trojans to use five-star incoming freshman Mark Bowman in a much bigger role than initially expected. He should be one of the best players at his position in the portal.

Size: 6-5, 290

Year in 2026: Redshirt senior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: One

Buzz: A former basketball player, Thompkins came to USC as a raw set of tools as a prospect and will now leave as one of the Trojans leaders on defense. Hailed by USC’s staff before last season as a breakout candidate, Thompkins never really lived up to those sky-high expectations. That may have been because he was a bit out of place on the interior, which led to some struggles against the run. But Thompkins notched three sacks last season nonetheless. His departure ensures that USC will add a veteran tackle in the portal. Though, he’ll be missed most as one of the leaders of USC’s defense.

Former schools: Oklahoma State, Chaffey College

Size: 6-2, 190

Year in 2026: Redshirt sophomore

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Three

Buzz: A former basketball standout at Etiwanda High, Pierce had never played organized football until his freshman season at Chaffey College in Rancho Cucamonga. He didn’t see the field at Oklahoma State, but at USC, he joins a secondary thin on experience, but set to be led by his brother, USC safety Christian Pierce. Whether he’ll be a factor remains to be seen, but surely his presence won’t hurt in keeping his brother happy.

Size: 6-5, 215

Year in 2026: Redshirt junior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Two

Buzz: Strachan was on his way to being the Trojans’ No. 3 receiver in 2024, until injuries brought his season to a screeching halt. Freshman Tanook Hines emerged in that spot while he sat out, and Strachan never made it back to the field. He has great size as a deep threat and outside receiver, and his success at Boise State before USC suggests that he should find a rotation spot somewhere else. Strachan also has a great story, having grown up in the Bahamas and leaving because of a hurricane.

Size: 6-2, 235

Year in 2026: Senior

Seasons of eligibility remaining: One

Buzz: Madden came to USC as a raw, 200-pound linebacker and developed into a regular contributor on special teams. But he never quite found his place on USC’s defense. He appeared in just one game at linebacker in 2025, the season opener against Missouri State. His six snaps in that game were enough to put him on top of USC’s defensive Pro Football Focus grades all season — for what that’s worth.

Size: 5-10, 205

Year in 2026: Redshirt freshman

Seasons of eligibility remaining: Four

Buzz: Had King Miller not exploded onto the scene, Dalton might have carved out a place in USC’s backfield as a freshman. He looked dynamic in limited reps, and his pedigree as one of the best preps players to ever come out of Richmond, Va., suggests he has a bright future ahead. Dalton might’ve been the No. 3 back in 2026, but elsewhere, it’s not unrealistic to think he could be an immediate contributor. Expect him to land somewhere of note.