A Reunion in Westwood

Trent Hendrick, the reigning Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year, has committed to UCLA, reuniting with coach Bob Chesney, who coached him at James Madison for two seasons. The commitment, reported by Bruin247 and On3.com, came less than two weeks before the Bruins' season opener against Cal on Sept. 5. Hendrick becomes the 11th former James Madison player to join UCLA under Chesney.

Hendrick's path back to college football took a winding route. After exhausting his eligibility following the 2025 season, the middle linebacker declared for the NFL draft and went undrafted. He participated in rookie minicamps with the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs, but never signed with a team or appeared on a roster.

Legal Battle and Fifth Year

Hendrick was among a group of players who challenged the NCAA's eligibility restrictions. He was one of 16 football players granted a temporary restraining order by a Louisiana judge, allowing him a fifth year of college eligibility and the ability to enter the transfer portal outside the normal window. The judge's ruling followed a Colorado court decision on July 31 that granted athletes who began their collegiate careers in the 2022-23 season a fifth year, though a federal appeals court later granted the NCAA a stay on that order. It remains unclear whether the Louisiana ruling covering Hendrick will be contested.

A New Backdrop: The Big Ten Rule

Hendrick's arrival came as the Big Ten adopted a new rule barring eligibility for players who declared for the NFL draft without withdrawing within 72 hours, signed with an NFL team, or were added to NFL rosters. Hendrick does not fall under any of those categories, as he never signed or joined a roster. UCLA athletic director Martin Jarmond issued a statement supporting the new rule and confirming Hendrick's eligibility.

Coach Bob Chesney acknowledged the situation could get messy, telling reporters, "Well, it still can realistically". The NCAA has criticized such court rulings, saying they cause chaos.

Only Stardom at James Madison

Hendrick's production at James Madison was prolific. He started 32 games and logged 1,808 career FBS snaps, becoming one of the most experienced players on the Bruins' roster. In 2025, he had 106 tackles, seven for loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles, and three pass breakups, earning Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year honors.

On-Field Magnet: Plugging a Run Defense Gap

UCLA's run defense ranked 18th worst in the nation last season, allowing 190.4 yards per game. Hendrick's former team, James Madison, ranked fifth best, allowing just 85.1 yards per game. His addition is seen a significant boost for a defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler's defense, which needs fortification at the interior.

Integration and Expectations

Hendrick practiced Monday without pads, wearing No. 51, because his No. 5 from JMU was retired at UCLA, honored to safety Kenny Easley. Chesney said Hendrick will "100%" be ready for the season opener, but that he needs to go through normal acclimation. "He knows the system," Chesney said. "He can jump in right way." Hendrick did not participate in the team periods yet, but took a final rep in drills. Chesney addressed the team about Hendrick's arrival; players expressed gratitude. Hendrick's arrival did not cost anyone else a roster spot or scholarship.

The Bruins' linebacker room includes Samuel Omosigho, Drew Spinogatti, Jalen Woods, Donovyn Pellot, and Scott Taylor. Sports Illustrated predicted Omosigho and Woods to start against Cal, but noted Hendrick's addition creates a five-man rotation, possibly reducing playing time for others. Hendrick's playing time could increase, possibly starting by midseason or conference play.

Hendrick, who was used in pass coverage and as a tackler, has played his last two seasons under Chesney at JMU. Chesney also related to the broader trend: "We're slowly moving to more of a triple-A team for the NFL," he said, reflecting on the changing economics of college sports.

A New Chapter

At 6-foot, 234 pounds, Hendrick brings a blend of experience and talent. He was ranked No. 2 among eligibility relief players by 247Sports' Cooper Petagna, and his decision to pick UCLA over Cal and Virginia Tech (which was reported by multiple outlets) underscore his comfort with Chesney's system and his trust in the coaching staff.

"He's a nice addition of a kid that we trust and believe in as part of our family," Chesney said, adding that Hendrick is "natural-born leader." On Monday, Hendrick walked onto the practice field without pads and made history in a program evolving rapidly toward the memories of college football.

The season opens at Cal on September 5, and Chesney expects Hendrick to play. For now, the Bruins gain an experienced, productive player in the middle of their defense, and a bit of chaos in the name of college football.