What UCLA Is Getting in Oklahoma Linebacker Transfer Sammy Omosigho
UCLA needed help at inside linebacker-and they got it in a big way. Sammy Omosigho, a veteran transfer from Oklahoma, is heading to Westwood with the expectation that he’ll step right into a major role in the heart of the Bruins’ defense in 2026. And based on what he brings to the table, there's every reason to believe he can deliver.
A Timely Addition
Omosigho didn’t jump into the transfer portal right away-he waited about six days after the window opened. That delay ended up working in UCLA’s favor.
While other programs had already started locking in their linebacker targets, the Bruins were still looking to fill a glaring hole after missing out on a few early options. When Omosigho became available, the timing was perfect.
UCLA had a prior connection with him, got him on campus immediately for an official visit, and locked in his commitment before he visited any other school. That kind of swift, decisive recruiting move says a lot about how highly the staff values what he can bring.
The Resume
Let’s talk credentials. Omosigho comes in as UCLA’s top-rated transfer this cycle-a four-star prospect in the portal with a 91 rating, and ranked as the No. 3 linebacker available. His pedigree goes back to high school, where he was also a four-star recruit with a 96 rating and ranked the No. 7 linebacker in the country coming out of Crandall High School in Texas.
At Oklahoma, he played in 37 games over three seasons, logging 661 defensive snaps and tallying 97 total tackles. In 2025 alone, he recorded 50 tackles, two sacks, and 4.5 tackles for loss.
That’s solid production for a player who wasn’t a full-time starter. He saw most of his action off the bench and on special teams, but he made the most of his reps.
The Skill Set
Omosigho checks a lot of boxes physically and athletically. At 6-1 and 235 pounds, he’s got the size you want in an inside linebacker, and he moves well-he’s got the range to cover sideline to sideline and the versatility to line up in multiple roles.
At Oklahoma, he played both the Mike and Will linebacker spots, and even got snaps at their hybrid “Cheetah” position. He’s comfortable dropping into coverage and has shown flashes of being a disruptive force when attacking downhill.
That said, there’s still some polish needed. Against the run, his gap discipline was hit or miss-sometimes he’d shoot himself out of the play, other times he’d do a nice job shedding blocks and making stops.
But one thing that stands out is his motor. He’s an effort guy, always around the ball, and that kind of hustle is something defenses can rally around.
The Fit at UCLA
This isn’t just a depth piece. Omosigho is being brought in to start-plain and simple.
UCLA needed a plug-and-play linebacker, and he fits the bill. The hope is that he can step in as the Mike linebacker, the quarterback of the defense, and bring stability to a unit that needed it.
Making that jump from rotational player to full-time starter is no small task, but Omosigho has the experience and athletic profile to make it work.
He’s not just filling a spot-he’s being asked to lead. And after spending three seasons in a backup role at Oklahoma, the opportunity to be “the guy” at UCLA clearly resonated with him.
Why It Matters
This was a big get for the Bruins. Inside linebacker was a clear position of need, and the options were starting to dry up.
Landing Omosigho late in the portal cycle was a clutch move by the staff. And when you consider that Oklahoma fans were disappointed to see him go, it tells you a lot about the kind of impact player UCLA is getting.
Omosigho brings a veteran presence, a high motor, and the kind of versatility that can anchor a defense. Without him, the linebacker room would’ve had some serious question marks heading into spring ball. With him, there’s a lot more confidence that the middle of the Bruins' defense will be in good hands.
Bottom line: Omosigho may not have been a star at Oklahoma, but he’s got all the tools to become one at UCLA.