The UCLA Bruins have added another piece to their defense.
Ranked #10 in the nation in total defense at the end of the 2023 season, the Bruins’ defense was their strong suit all year. And now they have added more to that side of the ball.
A three-star recruit, the Bruins added linebacker Isaiah Patterson. Patterson, of Yelm, Washington, chose UCLA over fellow Pac-12 rivals Arizona State, Oregon, Washington, and Washington State.
Standing at 6′ 3″ and 220 pounds, Patterson displays great athleticism and play-recognition. A decisive player on defense, Patterson’s tape demonstrates an ability to diagnose plays quickly, shoot and plug running lanes, and make tackles in the open field.
4s Up for Isaiah!@ZayPatterson24 is officially a UCLA Bruin! pic.twitter.com/21UMPcYNnt
— UCLA Football (@UCLAFootball) December 20, 2023
UCLA seems keen on adding to their defense, nabbing four-star linebacking recruit Weston Port earlier this month.
With the team under new leadership, following Chip Kelly’s departure and the start of DeShaun Foster’s tenure, there will certainly be growing pains for the young Bruins team. But by continuing to solidify their strongest asset, their defense, the Bruin could help maintain some of the success they enjoyed in 2023 as they begin their time in the BIG 10.