Trent Hendrick commits to UCLA football

Middle linebacker Trent Hendrick has committed to UCLA football, reuniting with head coach Bob Chesney and defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler. Hendrick, the reigning Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year, previously played for James Madison University.

His move to UCLA follows a legal development in which a Louisiana judge granted a temporary restraining order to Hendrick and 15 other players. This ruling allows them to enter the transfer portal and play a fifth season of college football. Hendrick had previously participated in NFL rookie minicamps with the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs after going undrafted in the 2026 NFL draft.

During his 2025 season at James Madison, Hendrick recorded 106 tackles, seven tackles for loss, three sacks, and two forced fumbles. His arrival is expected to strengthen the Bruins’ defense ahead of their season opener against California on September 5.