There’s still no answer on Scooter Jackson, and that leaves UCLA waiting as fall camp approaches.
At Big Ten media day on Wednesday, head coach Bob Chesney said the Bruins still don’t have an update on the defensive back’s eligibility, and Jackson is working to get back on the field. Based on where things stand now, it doesn’t sound like he’ll be out there when camp opens.
“The update is that there’s no update right now,” Chesney said.
That uncertainty has lingered since spring. Chesney praised Jackson early in camp, calling out the cornerback’s technique, fundamentals, understanding of the game and physicality after UCLA’s third spring practice. But two weeks later, Jackson was no longer practicing after being ruled academically ineligible.
Jackson had been working at cornerback before he was sidelined. With Rodrick Pleasant limited by a shoulder injury, Jackson was lining up opposite a mix of Dante Lovett and Robert Stafford and holding his own.
His value to UCLA goes beyond one spot. Jackson began the 2025 season at safety after transferring from Utah Tech, then moved to nickel four games in and settled in as a starter for the final nine games.
Over that stretch, he posted 44 tackles, two interceptions and a forced fumble. That strong finish, paired with his fast start under the new staff in spring, created real buzz around what he could bring in 2026.
If Jackson can’t get eligible, UCLA has options. DJ Barksdale could slide to cornerback, while Cole Martin could move to nickel. The Bruins have enough depth in the secondary to piece things together during fall camp, but Jackson’s versatility makes him a player they’d clearly prefer to have available.
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