The UCLA Bruins defense is set to look much different in 2024 with the Murphy twins, Darius Muasau, and Laiatu Latu all off to the NFL.
But, one player who could fill one of the gaps is Ale Kaho. The former Alabama transfer played just one game over the past two seasons due to a multitude of injuries, but he has encouraged coaches during camp early on.
New Bruins defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe spoke highly of Kaho, per James H. Williams of The Los Angeles Daily News.
“I think we all know how athletic he is,” defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe said. “He’s a really special player but it’s his availability that will be the best ability for him.
As for the coaching staff, they want to do their part to make sure Kaho is healthy: “We have to do our part to make sure he’s healthy and just the reps he takes out on the field. He doesn’t need much.”
Bruins linebacker Oluwafemi Oladej also spoke highly of Kaho and is excited to see him on the field: “Ale’s just an explosive player, fun to play with, fun to talk to in the locker room, great guy. He accelerates everybody’s confidence, just knowing Ale’s playing behind the ball, I can play fast because he’s playing fast.”
If Kaho can be healthy for the 2024 season, it would be a giant boost to the Bruins’ defense.