Former James Madison linebacker Trent Hendrick has committed to UCLA after a Louisiana judge granted a temporary restraining order allowing him to pursue a fifth year of college eligibility and enter the transfer portal.
Hendrick, who was undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft and participated in rookie minicamps with the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs, joins the Bruins’ roster for the upcoming season. The move reunites him with former James Madison head coach Bob Chesney, who now leads UCLA’s football program.
Core Facts
- Hendrick’s eligibility status: A Louisiana judge issued a temporary restraining order on Wednesday, permitting Hendrick and 15 other players to play a fifth season of college football and transfer.
- Hendrick’s commitment: He signed with UCLA, marking his return to Westwood after Chesney’s hiring in December 2024.
Background and Context
Hendrick’s College Career and Accolades
In his senior season at James Madison in 2025, Hendrick earned Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year honors after recording 106 tackles, seven tackles for loss, three sacks, and two forced fumbles. His performance under Chesney’s coaching contributed to his recognition as one of the conference’s top defensive players.
UCLA’s Coaching Staff Rebuild
Hendrick is the 11th former James Madison player to join UCLA’s roster this season, reflecting a broader trend of former Dukes following Chesney to Westwood. The Bruins’ coaching staff includes multiple assistants from James Madison:
- Defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler
- Offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy
- Offensive line coach Chris Smith
- Cornerbacks coach Eddie Whitley Jr.
- Safeties coach Anthony DiMichele
- Defensive line coach Sam Daniels
- Special teams coordinator and tight ends coach Drew Canan
Legal and Policy Developments
Court Ruling and Eligibility
The restraining order follows a July 31 Colorado court ruling that granted athletes who began their collegiate careers in the 2022-23 academic year a fifth year of eligibility. However, a federal appeal court issued a temporary stay on the Colorado ruling on Friday, pausing the nationwide injunction. The Louisiana ruling covering Hendrick’s transfer remains subject to potential legal challenges.
NFL Draft and Career Path
Hendrick went undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft and did not sign with any team after participating in rookie minicamps. His decision to return to college football reflects both his desire to extend his athletic career and the evolving landscape of NCAA eligibility rules.
Reactions and Implications
Player Perspective
Hendrick’s move to UCLA provides an opportunity to reunite with Chesney and continue his collegiate career under familiar coaching staff. His addition strengthens UCLA’s defense and aligns with the program’s rebuilding efforts under Chesney’s leadership.
Programmatic Impact
For UCLA, Hendrick’s commitment represents a strategic acquisition of a proven Sun Belt standout. The influx of former James Madison players underscores the Bruins’ reliance on the transfer portal to rebuild the roster, particularly in the wake of recent coaching changes.
Legal and Regulatory Outlook
The conflicting court rulings—one granting eligibility and another pausing it—highlight the ongoing uncertainty surrounding NCAA policies. The outcome of the Louisiana case and the federal appeal could set a precedent for future eligibility disputes, affecting thousands of student-athletes nationwide.