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UCLA Football: 5 Bruins to Make Immediate Impacts in the NFL

By Michael Chavez

September 5, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins wide receiver Thomas Duarte (18) runs in to score a touch down against the Virginia Cavaliers during the first half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
September 5, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins wide receiver Thomas Duarte (18) runs in to score a touch down against the Virginia Cavaliers during the first half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 2, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Paul Perkins (24) runs after a catch during the second half of the 2015 Alamo Bowl against the Kansas State Wildcats at Alamodome. The Bruins won 40-35. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Paul Perkins (24) runs after a catch during the second half of the 2015 Alamo Bowl against the Kansas State Wildcats at Alamodome. The Bruins won 40-35. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /

Paul Perkins RB- New York Giants 5th Round

Depth Chart

Perkins arrives in a situation where although it looks like there is a crowded backfield, he is clearly much closer to the top than the bottom is terms of talent. Rashad Jennings has claimed the starting role each time he’s been healthy but that’s the problem, he is rarely healthy and played 16 games for the first time in his 7 year career in 2015. He is also 31 years old.

His backup Andre Williams has been lackluster and the big bruiser hasn’t shown the quick feet to thrive in the NFL. Orleans Darkwa flashed last season but he isn’t a starter. Shane Vereen was signed to be a receiving threat out of the backfield but was under utilized.

Why he can make an immediate impact…

Pure and simple it comes down to talent and Perkins has the most of it. He’s tough enough to run inside but has enough speed and vision to bounce it when he needs to. He can catch the ball well out of the backfield and is a mismatch against most linebackers. His main issue will be pass protection and until he gets better at that, look for Vereen to be the third down back.

Next: Big man in the middle