The 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent UCLA football history. Coach Bob Chesney, who arrived in Westwood with a reputation for aggressive recruiting, has already remade the Bruins’ defense through the transfer portal, landing a class that sits at No. 11 nationally among incoming transfers.
That influx comes alongside a high school recruiting group that Rivals placed at No. 65 in the country, a ranking that notably lacks any four‑ or five‑star prospects. The modest haul sets a modest baseline, but it also underscores the reliance on portal acquisitions to fill the gaps.
Among the newcomers is Malaki Soliai‑Tui, a three‑star linebacker who graduated from Kahuku High School in Hawaii. Nationally he is ranked 1,385th, 130th among linebackers and 10th within the state, yet his senior season statistics were anything but modest: 56.5 tackles, five tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks and a forced interception.
Tui’s versatility is what caught the eye of the coaching staff. He is comfortable in open‑field tackling, excels as a run stopper and has shown the ability to drop into coverage, making him a potential Swiss‑army knife piece for Chesney’s scheme.
A Versatile Threat Emerges
What makes Tui especially intriguing is not just his statistical output, but the way he fits into Chesney’s defensive philosophy. The coach has repeatedly emphasized the need for players who can adapt to multiple roles, and Tui’s skill set aligns perfectly with that vision.
The linebacker room will also welcome Samuel Omosigho and Drew Spinogatti, both of whom arrived via the portal and bring their own skill sets. Together with Tui, they represent a significant shift in depth and flexibility for the Bruins.
If the early reports are any indication, the combination of seasoned transfers and an unexpected freshman standout could give UCLA a defensive front that is both unpredictable and potent.