Bob Chesney has done a good job in rebuilding the Bruins' defense.Last year, the Bruins' defense had its ups and downs. The pass rush and run defense were non-existent, with 10 sacks and 40 tackles for loss, both dead last in the Big Ten. Meanwhile, the secondary was middle of the road with decent pass coverage as they held opponents to 196 passing yards per game.May 2, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins coach Bob Chesney reacts during the spring game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectYesterday, I released my projected starting offense list before fall camp begins. Now here is my projected starting defense before fall camp starts on August 12th.EDGE - Sahir WestSep 5, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; James Madison Dukes defensive end Sahir West (15) reacts during the second half against the Louisville Cardinals at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectSahir West was arguably the best defender on James Madison's roster last season, as well as one of the best edge rushers in the Sun Belt Conference. Last season as a redshirt freshman, he finished the year with a team-high seven sacks and 14 tackles for loss.DT - Maxwell RoyOct 4, 2025; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers running back Darius Taylor (1) runs the ball as Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Maxwell Roy (93) makes the tackle during the second quarter at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectMaxwell Roy did not play a snap as a freshman for Ohio State last year, then redshirted and transferred to UCLA. Coming out of high school, he was a great run-stopper along the interior of the defensive line, who also showed flashes of being able to rush the passer. Roy is very young and will be a developmental player, but because the depth along the interior is thin, he is talented enough to start next season.DT - Tyson FordTyson Ford DL of the Fighting Irish at Notre Dame football practice at the Irish Athletic Center on August 7, 2023. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters ConnectFord is the most “experienced” defensive tackle, but has dealt with injuries throughout his career. Ford was once a top-100 high school recruit in the 2023 class, but he hasn't lived up to those expectations. Last year, with Cal, he played in seven games and showed off his athleticism. Because the depth isn't great, he could be another player who starts right away.EDGE - Aiden GobairaNotre Dame defensive end Aiden Gobaira (91) during the Notre Dame Blue-Gold Spring Football game on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend.