5 Former UCLA Bruins Poised for a Big 2016 NFL Season

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Dec 27, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) against the New York Giants at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Giants 49-17. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

Go Joe Bruin takes a look at five former UCLA Football players that will make an impact on the NFL in 2016.

As we work towards the 2016 season the real work has already begun. Rookies looking to make a name for themselves have reported to rookie minicamps in hopes of getting into their playbooks and catching the coaches eyes.

NFL veterans who maybe didn’t have the best season last year are looking for a bounce back year or are looking to earn a new contract will also began reporting to camp on Monday. The Bruins are represented in the NFL by a number of both rookie and veteran players alike. This is a list of five former Bruins that are in line for a big 2016.

Honorable Mention

Here’s a couple of Bruins that just missed the list

Jordan Payton WR, Cleveland Browns

The young rookie receiver landed in an ideal spot with the Cleveland Browns.Their depth at receiver wasn’t great before the draft and despite selecting three pass wideouts in this year’s past draft, no one has the physicality he brings to the position. Add into the equation the Browns just cut solid all around receiver Brian Hartline, and Payton should have plenty of opportunities to rack up stats. The biggest question for him now is who will he catch passes from?

Eric Kendricks LB, Minnesota Vikings

It took Vikings fans a little longer to realize what Bruin fans already knew, Kendricks is a beast of a linebacker. A smart, instinctive young player with tons of athletic ability and underrated pass coverage skills, Kendricks is a stud inside. Entering his second season and more importantly, second season with outstanding defensive mind Mike Zimmer, I expect Kendricks to become a wrecking ball in the NFC North.

Next: A change of scenery