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5 Former UCLA Bruins Poised for a Big 2016 NFL Season

By Michael Chavez

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
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 /
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Nov 21, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; UCLA Bruins wide receiver Thomas Duarte (18) catches a touchdown pass during the first quarter against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. UCLA won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; UCLA Bruins wide receiver Thomas Duarte (18) catches a touchdown pass during the first quarter against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. UCLA won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Thomas Duarte TE, Miami Dolphins

When the Dolphins selected Duarte, all I could think was “they’re finally going to replace Charles Clay“. Neither Clay or Duarte fit the mold of traditional TE, but they create mismatches, have outstanding athleticism and most importantly, they are quarterback friendly.

Jordan Cameron hasn’t impacted the offense quite how the front office imagined it and is owed a lot of money. While I don’t expect him to be cut, he’s on a very short leash and has struggled to stay healthy.

The only real competition for Duarte will be Cameron or Jake Stoneburner but neither have done much in their time in Miami. Dion Sims the other TE is much more of a blocking TE than a pass catcher. At the end of the day, quarterback Ryan Tannehill needs weapons and Durate can be a big one.

Next: The elephant in the room