Boston College football rebuilds defensive units for 2026

Boston College football is undergoing significant roster rebuilding across its defensive units heading into the 2026 season. The football program has focused heavily on the transfer portal to address depth issues following a 2-10 season and previous injury struggles.

The linebacker unit is expected to improve through key additions, including Washington State transfer Anthony Palano, who is viewed as a potential team captain and the defensive leader. Additionally, redshirt sophomore Bodie Kahoun joins the group from Notre Dame.

The defensive line is also being restructured following the departure of ACC Defensive Player of the Year Ezeiruaku. Under defensive coordinator Ted Roof and defensive line coach Ben Albert, the team is integrating several transfers, including Georgia transfer Kris Jones, Buffalo transfer Demetrius Ballard, and interior players KJ Sampson from Florida State and Christian Hudson from Colorado.