Three UCLA Football Players Earn All-American Honors

The Bruins lead the nation in midseason first-team All-American selections following an undefeated start.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Football

Three UCLA Football Players Earn All-American Honors

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Running back Wayne Knight, linebacker Sammy Omosigho, and safety Ta'Shawn James were named midseason first-team All-Americans. UCLA currently holds the most selections of any football program in the country after achieving a 5-0 record to begin the season.

Why it matters

The recognition reflects the rapid success of the Bruins under head coach Bob Chesney. These individual accolades highlight the program's elite talent as it continues its inaugural Big Ten campaign.

Running back Wayne Knight averages 157.8 all-purpose yards per game with 11 total touchdowns, while safety Ta'Shawn James has recorded four interceptions. Additionally, linebacker Sammy Omosigho has forced four fumbles and notched 42 total tackles.

The players

Wayne Knight

He is the standout UCLA running back who leads the team with 11 total touchdowns this season.

Sammy Omosigho

He is a Bruins linebacker who currently serves as a quarterfinalist for the Lott IMPACT Trophy.

Ta'Shawn James

He is a UCLA safety who has contributed four interceptions to the team's defensive efforts.

Bob Chesney

He is the head coach leading the development of the UCLA football program.

The details

Beyond individual success, the UCLA offensive line was named to the Joe Moore Award midseason honor roll as one of 25 recognized programs. Every starting offensive lineman for the team has participated in at least 224 total snaps this season.

October 15, 2026: Three Bruins named midseason All-Americans.
October 14, 2026: UCLA offensive line recognized by Joe Moore Award.
November 3, 2026: Lombardi Award semifinalists announced.

Season Trajectory

The Bruins' midseason honors bolster their standing as a primary contender in the Big Ten. This recognition signals that the team is successfully navigating the transition to a new conference while maintaining national relevance.

Sammy Omosigho remains in contention for the Lott IMPACT Trophy as one of 16 quarterfinalists. The team's continued success depends on their ability to maintain this production as they prepare for upcoming Big Ten conference matchups.

The takeaway

Individual success for Knight, Omosigho, and James highlights the depth of the current UCLA roster. Fans should watch for the upcoming semifinalist announcements in November to see if these players and the offensive line continue their award-winning season.