Updated Sept. 4, 2026, 9:12 p.m. PT
It appears that the UCLA Bruins will be having an experienced member of their secondary in action against Cal in Week 1. It’s not official but it’s appearing that DB Scooter Jackson will be in action to begin the 2026 season after battling academic eligibility issues. Jackson’s eligibility has been up in the air all summer, being named ineligible in the spring before returning to practice in the fall.
Jackson tweeted a single word on Friday to give the UCLA faithful reason to believe he’ll be suiting up. It’s easy to assume that the reason Jackson is feeling “blessed” is the fact he’ll get to suit up in the season opener. Not only is that good for Jackson, it’s good for the Bruins. Jackson was one of UCLA’s best players on the 2025 squad, playing in all 12 games and making 44 tackles with two interceptions. After last season Jackson entered the transfer portal but ultimately decided to stay home with the Bruins.
Jackson didn’t just stay home for UCLA, the Compton native opted to stay in Southern California to finish out his college career. Jackson is going to be an important puzzle piece this season for first-year defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler. Jackson started eight games at nickel last season and finds himself in a very talented secondary alongside Cole Martin, Tao Johnson, Rodrick Pleasant and Derrick Barksdale. Saturday’s game will show us more about Hitschler’s plan for the secondary but it appears as if he’ll have Jackson at his disposal to try and slow down the Cal offense.
