UCLA Football: Projecting the starting lineup for the 2017 season

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PASADENA, CA – OCTOBER 01: Head coach Jim Mora of the UCLA Bruins looks on during the second half of a game against the Arizona Wildcats at the Rose Bowl on October 1, 2016 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

Projected UCLA Football Special Team Starters

***ALSO SEE: UCLA Football Projected Depth Charts – Special Teams

K: JJ Molson

P: Austin Kent

K/P Returner: Adarius Pickett

It was a rocky year for the Bruins’ special teams. Youth and inconsistency lead to the Bruins having to make a switch in the kicking and punting game late in the season.

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But after a year in the system, Molson and Kent should not only regain their starting gigs, but hold onto them through the end of the season.

Both players were #1 in their position group the year before the got to UCLA. They came in with a lot of skill and a lot of hope, but it was evident that on a few occasions, they had some things to work on.

So with one season under their belts, they should be able to give the Bruins the special push they need to win games.

As for the return game, the Bruins have several excellent options, but Pickett has been impressive in his development and should be a top candidate to handle this crucial role for UCLA. But fans should also expect to see a few other names pop up for return duty, like Mossi Johnson and Octavius Spencer.

Next: UCLA Football - The uncertainty of the coming 2017 season

UCLA looks to have a bounce back season and could do a lot of damage with their roster. If the Bruins are going to make a difference, these players are going to have a huge part in that.