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Hendrick Cleared for UCLA Football Play
26 Aug
Summary
- Trent Hendrick is eligible to play for UCLA football in 2026.
- Big Ten's new rule clarifies player eligibility for conference rosters.
- Hendrick was Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year last season.
Trent Hendrick has received clearance to play for the UCLA Bruins, ensuring his eligibility for the 2026 football season. This decision follows the Big Ten conference's implementation of new rules concerning player eligibility.
The conference's revised policy prohibits players who entered the NFL draft without withdrawing, appeared on an NFL roster, or signed professional contracts from competing on a Big Ten team. Hendrick's situation has been reviewed, and he meets the criteria to be eligible, facilitating his transfer from James Madison.
UCLA Athletic Director Martin Jarmond expressed support for the Big Ten's new standards, confirming that their student-athletes, including Hendrick, are eligible under the adopted guidelines. Hendrick, a significant addition to the Bruins' defense, recorded 209 tackles, 19.0 tackles for loss, and 6.0 sacks during his four seasons with James Madison, earning Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year honors last season. The Bruins are looking to improve after a challenging 2025 season under new head coach Bob Chesney.
