Two new Bruins are already turning heads before the season even kicks off, with USA TODAY college sports trending writer Austin Curtright naming both of them to his “Big Ten football’s 10 most impactful transfers for 2026” list. This isn’t just hype; we’re talking about players who have already proven they can absolutely dominate, and now they’re bringing that game to UCLA.
Wayne Knight Is Coming To Town, And He’s Bringing The Rain
First up, senior running back Wayne Knight is ready to absolutely explode. This guy followed his former head coach, Bob Chesney, from James Madison, and what a move that looks like! Knight was an All-American last season by multiple outlets, and for good reason. He was a certified difference-maker for the Dukes, rushing for an insane 1,373 yards and nine touchdowns. And it wasn’t just on the ground; he snagged 40 passes for 397 yards and another score through the air. You want proof he can hang with the big dogs? The 5-7, 193-pound back, despite his smaller frame, ran for 110 yards on a monster 6.5 yards per carry against Oregon in the College Football Playoff. That’s not just holding his own; that’s straight-up balling out against top-tier competition. Knight is already on multiple preseason All-American teams for 2026, and the expectations for his final season of eligibility are through the roof.
Sahir West Is A “Freak” Who’s Already Causing Chaos
Then there’s sophomore defensive end Sahir West, another incredible transfer from James Madison. This dude broke out in a massive way as a redshirt freshman in 2025, racking up a whopping seven sacks. Seven! As a redshirt freshman! The 6-3, 279-pound edge rusher has been tearing it up in fall camp, reportedly giving the Bruins’ offense absolute fits. It’s no shock he also landed on Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks List,” which highlights some of the most elite athletes in college football. Coach Chesney is banking on West making a seamless jump in competition, and if he keeps performing like he has, he’s set to be a standout this season. We’re talking about a force multiplier on that defensive line.
These two transfers, Knight and West, are poised to make immediate, game-changing impacts for UCLA. With their proven track records and the buzz already surrounding them in fall camp, Bruins fans have every right to be absolutely buzzing for what’s coming. Get ready, because the 2026 season is about to get wild, and these guys are a huge reason why.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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