With the 2018 NFL Draft over, Go Joe Bruin looks ahead to the 2019 draft and the numerous UCLA football players that could hear their name called.
This year, eight UCLA football players got the call up to the pros and will begin their NFL careers. It was a great achievement for the program, but looking ahead to next season, it looks like the success will continue.
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This season, despite the program’s shift from the Jim Mora to the Chip Kelly mindset, the Bruins have several payers that should excel in 2018, making a case for NFL teams to draft them in 2019.
Though the UCLA will move to a run-based spread offense with an aggressive defense, Go Joe Bruin looks at nine players that can make a splash next season, setting them up for success and a consideration for the draft.
So without further ado, in no particular order, here is who we have going pro…
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Andre James, OT
James has been slowly making his way through the ranks of the offensive line and last year he got his shot. Two seasons ago he was thrust into the line because of depth issues and injuries, which was more of a learning curve for him. Last year he looked to be a better fit on the line that made minor improvements with the rush offense and helped produce the 4th best passing offense.
James is very durable as he has experience at guard and tackle, but learning behind the likes of Kolton Miller, who was drafted 15th overall by the Oakland Raiders, will help him protect the edges, especially on the left side which he will be taking over this fall.
With his size and length, he should be able to protect the weak side as well as Miller, especially if he puts on some more mass. Either way, he is an up-and-coming lineman and should get some attention heading into the 2019 draft.