What's Happening?
UCLA has successfully retained its key kicking specialists for the 2026 season, with kicker Mateen Bhaghani and punter Chase Barry returning to the team. Bhaghani, who initially entered the transfer portal, decided to stay with UCLA, bringing back his consistent performance record, including a 100% success rate on extra points in 2025. Barry, who transferred to Oklahoma State for a brief period, has also returned to UCLA, adding depth to the special teams unit. These moves are part of UCLA's broader strategy to stabilize its roster amid significant player turnover.
Why It's Important?
The return of Bhaghani and Barry is significant for UCLA as it ensures continuity and reliability in the special teams unit, which is crucial for close games. Bhaghani's consistent
kicking performance can be a game-changer in tight matchups, while Barry's experience adds depth to the punting position. These decisions reflect UCLA's proactive approach in managing its roster through the transfer portal, aiming to maintain a competitive edge. The stability in special teams could play a pivotal role in UCLA's overall performance in the upcoming season.
