UCLA Bruins in the NFL: Former Stars Shine in Pro Season Opener
UCLA alumni make their mark in the NFL as the Bruins' football season takes off.
The UCLA Bruins’ current football season has kicked off with a bang, following their impressive victory against Coastal Carolina. However, this week, the university paid homage to its football legends who now grace the professional gridiron.
As the NFL’s Week 1 season opener drew near, the official UCLA football Twitter account took a moment to extend its support to the former Bruins who are now making waves in the pros. Among the 26 UCLA alumni currently donning NFL jerseys, a handful of standout players have captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.
One of the most notable names on the list is Eric Kendricks, who has returned to his roots in Los Angeles, playing for the Chargers. After a long and successful tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, Kendricks is eager to showcase his talents at SoFi Stadium, bolstering the Chargers’ defense. His addition comes after a somewhat disappointing stint in the NFC North, culminating in a single playoff appearance with the Giants, mirroring the fate of his new team.
While Kendricks shines in LA, the Green Bay Packers’ defensive tackle, Kenny Clark, continues to make his presence felt in the NFC North. Clark has consistently proven himself as one of the league’s premier nose guards, maintaining a strong defensive front for the Packers.
However, the spotlight also shines brightly on a more recent UCLA alum, Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Fresh from an outstanding preseason performance, Thompson-Robinson secured the coveted backup quarterback position in Cleveland. He now stands as Deshaun Watson’s primary understudy for the Browns, impressing coaches and fans alike with his stellar audition prior to the regular season.
Kolton Miller’s contributions to the Las Vegas Raiders’ offensive line should not go unnoticed. Since being drafted several years ago, Miller has been a steadfast and reliable presence, anchoring the Raiders’ line of scrimmage.
As the UCLA alumni continue to thrive in the NFL, both veterans and exciting young prospects serve as beacons of inspiration for this year’s Bruins roster. The lessons learned from their successes will undoubtedly serve as a blueprint for the current Bruins squad, aiming to emulate their NFL-bound predecessors in the near future.
