UCLA Football: Are Bruins on Cusp of Garnering a Big 2024 Commitment?
Despite being among the better programs nationally at developing talent, UCLA's current recruiting class -- particularly from the high school ranks -- leaves a lot to be desired.
With less than two weeks until the second official signing day period for the class of 2024, the Bruins are still shaking the proverbial trees loose, hoping to find some quality talent to add to their roster.
Based on one report from 247Sports Tuesday afternoon, it appears as if Chip Kelly's diligence on the recruiting trail could be paying off.
According to 247Sports, four widely respected pundits (Brandon Huffman, Greg Biggins, Steve Wiltfong, Blair Angulo) have all launched crystal ball predictions for UCLA to land talented 2024 defensive end prospect Keona Wilhite.
Wilhite was considering the Bruins heavily during the early parts of his recruitment. He ended up signing officially with Washington. In the wake of Kalen DeBoer leaving for Alabama, Wilhite left the program and thus restarted his recruitment process with little time to spare until the second signing period.
Over the last few weeks, a host of schools had made major pushes to sign the 6'5" edge rusher. Among them have been Nebraska, Michigan State, and UCLA.
Multiple members of the Bruins' coaching staff met with Wilhite over the last week. Defensive Coordinator Ikaika Malloe and new defensive line coach Tony Washington Jr. came in first, with Kelly coming in as the closer a few days later.
Wilhite has a very high upside as a player. He has a frame that can still add weight and strength. Even then, he's a naturally athletic player with impressive pass-rushing skills.
Considering UCLA lost its top-five edge rushers from last year, there's a real likelihood Wilhite can come in and play right away (should he sign with the Bruins).
According to 247Sports, Wilhite has accrued scholarship offers from UCLA, Washington, Oregon State, Nebraska, Michigan State, Arizona, Colorado, Arizona State, and BYU.
