UCLA’s Scooter Jackson Enters Transfer Portal as Offseason Begins

As the college football regular season winds down, the offseason transfer portal window is set to open in January. Notably, Scooter Jackson, a standout defensive back for the UCLA Bruins, has announced his intention to enter the transfer portal, representing a significant loss for the team.

On December 1, 2025, Hayes Fawcett of Rivals reported that Jackson, a junior from Compton, California, will be leaving UCLA just one season after transferring from Utah State. During his time with the Bruins, Jackson made a considerable impact, concluding the season with 44 total tackles, four pass breakups, four interceptions, and one forced fumble. His performance solidified his reputation as a top 175 transfer addition last year, making him one of the most coveted prospects in the 2026 transfer portal.

The departure of Jackson poses a significant challenge for the Bruins, especially as the team anticipates losing several key players from their secondary. His absence could leave the program vulnerable, particularly given that UCLA finished the season with a disappointing 3-9 record, placing them near the bottom of the Big Ten Conference. This context provides insight into Jackson’s decision to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Looking ahead, the Bruins have made strides in recruiting, bringing in four defensive back recruits for the 2026 cycle. These include Justin Lewis, C.J. Lavender, Madden Soliai, and Logan Hirou, all three-star prospects with potential. While it is unlikely that they will immediately step into starting roles, they could contribute to the team’s depth in the secondary.

New head coach Bob Chesney faces a crucial task in addressing the cornerback and safety positions through the transfer portal. Retaining talent in today’s college football landscape presents ongoing challenges, and Jackson’s decision underscores the urgency for effective roster management.

As UCLA prepares for the offseason, the focus will be on assembling a competitive team capable of improving their standing in the Big Ten. The upcoming transfer portal offers a critical opportunity for the Bruins to rebuild and enhance their roster before the next season commences.