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UCLA Football: The top candidates to be taken in the 2019 NFL Draft

By Mike Regalado

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays the text "THE PICK IS IN" for the Los Angeles Chargers during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays the text "THE PICK IS IN" for the Los Angeles Chargers during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /
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Soso Jamabo, RB

Like Olorunfunmi, Jamabo has so far had a less than stellar experience at UCLA. A combination of three OC styles in three years has not made his progression smooth.

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The RBs were also mishandled two seasons ago when Kennedy Polamalu was the OC who tried to implement a power-based offense. The result: one of the worst rushing offenses in the country. KP also had the tendency to pull RBs who had the hot hand, disallowing them to thrive and grow in not just a game, but the majority th season.

Last year, Jedd Fisch made improvements with the run game, but it still did not amplify the talents of the Bruins backs. But make no mistake, Jamabo can be an explosive player. He is not necessarily a back that should go up the middle (especially with a rickety O-line), as he is more suited for running around the edge.

When he gets into space, he can burn defenders with his elusiveness and speed. He can also double as a receiver (which I think we will see in Kelly’s offense) as he was the leader in reception yards by a running back with 204 yards (12.0 yards per catch).

As a back, he was second on the team in rushing with 463 yards and first in touchdowns with six. Not impressive numbers, but as stated before, a lot of that had to do with the change in offensive philosophy every year he has been in Westwood.

Next: The 30 Greatest UCLA Football Players of All-Time

Still, with the deception, improvements on the offensive line and generally better coaching, Jamabo should have a break out season which will get him the attention he deserves among NFL execs.