Bruins Nation - 2014 NFL Draft: UCLA Alums Chasing Their Professional Football DreamsBlog Of The Bruins, By The Bruins, For The Bruinshttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48017/bruinsnation_f.png2014-05-12T20:09:30-07:00http://www.bruinsnation.com/rss/stream/54579432014-05-12T20:09:30-07:002014-05-12T20:09:30-07:00Sharing intel on XSF with SBN's Houston Texan bloggers<h3 class="link-title"><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.battleredblog.com/2014/5/12/5708856/five-questions-with-bruins-nation-xavier-sua-filo-texans-ucla-2014-nfl-draft">Sharing intel on XSF with SBN's Houston Texans&nbsp;bloggers</a></h3>
<div class="description"><p><p>Patroclus and IE Angel share intel on the best OL to come out of UCLA since Ogden the Great.</p>
<p>GO BRUINS.</p></p></div>
https://www.bruinsnation.com/2014/5/12/5712218/sharing-intel-on-xsf-with-sbns-houston-texans-bloggersNestor2014-05-11T08:00:08-07:002014-05-11T08:00:08-07:00Bruin Bites: Post-NFL Draft Edition
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<figcaption>Stephen Dunn</figcaption>
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<p>A collection of news and notes after the UCLA Bruins' outstanding NFL Draft weekend, seeing 5 Bruins drafted in the first 6 rounds.</p> <p>This weekend was another banner week for the UCLA football program, as 5 <a href="https://www.bruinsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bruins</a> were selected in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft" class="sbn-auto-link">NFL Draft</a>. UCLA led the Pac-12 through the sixth round, until Stanford had some players go in the 200's and ended up with 6 guys being selected.</p>
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<li><span>The reactions about the Bruins' Day 1 and 2 picks, <span>Anthony Barr</span> (#9 to the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Vikings</a>) and <span>Xavier Su'a-Filo</span> (<a target="_blank" href="http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/05/09/texans-start-the-second-round-with-guard-xavier-sua-filo/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter">#33 to the Texans</a>) from our SB Nation affiliates Daily Norseman and Battle Red Blog were mostly positive. This was especially for Su'a-Filo at #33 <a target="_blank" href="http://www.battleredblog.com/2014/5/9/5700328/2014-nfl-draft-results-houston-texans-take-player-name-with-first">which was met with near unanimous excitement</a> despite the fact that they'll be starting <span>Ryan Fitzpatrick</span> or <span>Case Keenum</span> at QB. The opinions are Barr <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2014/5/9/5698556/2014-nfl-draft-minnesota-vikings-draft-grade-round-up">warmed up considerably</a> after the Vikings traded up to pick <span>Teddy Bridgewater</span> at #32, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2014/5/8/5697474/2014-nfl-draft-post-round-one-open-thread">getting their QB of the future</a> (unlike the <a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Buccaneers</a> who decided to take over the claim of worst QB situation in the NFC, not that I'm bitter or anything). </span></li>
<li> <span><span>Anthony Barr</span> killed his </span><span><a target="_blank" href="http://www.vikings.com/media-vault/videos/Barr-I-Cant-Wait-To-Get-To-Work/ba0200bd-c5ba-4020-9a73-697cadfaeed4">opening press conference as a Viking</a>. Displays all the confidence and poise that we came to expect after watching him develop into a top 10 talent over the years.</span> </li>
<li> <span>Just like on Day 2, a Bruin was off the board almost as soon as the day began on Day 3. </span><span><a target="_blank" href="http://blog.seattlepi.com/football/2014/05/10/seattle-seahawks-add-uclas-cassius-marsh-in-fourth-round-of-nfl-draft/">At pick 108, Cassius Marsh was scooped up by Seattle</a></span><span>. The defending champion <a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Seattle Seahawks</a> leapt on an athletic pass rusher with a high motor that doesn't fit in a traditional position at the next level. There is a reason why teams like Seattle and San Francisco have such exceptional defenses. Marsh isn't ever going to be a player that is on the field for 50+ snaps a game in the NFL, but there is no reason to think he can't produce in passing situations and hold down the edge. </span><span><a target="_blank" href="http://www.fieldgulls.com/nfl-draft/2014/5/10/5703662/nfl-draft-2014-results-seahawks-select-de-cassius-marsh-with-fourth">The team over at SB Nation's Field Gulls </a></span><span>took a look at this selection as well.</span> </li>
<li> <span>Shaq Evans was off the board </span><span><a target="_blank" href="http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york/jets/post/_/id/38810/jets-take-shaq-evans-in-4th?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter">quickly in the 4th round to the New York Jets at pick #</a>114</span><span>. He'll be competing for a starting job with <span>Stephen Hill</span>, and fellow draft picks <span>Jalen Saunders</span> from Oklahoma and Quincy Enuwa from Nebraska. With Evans' ability, there is no reason to expect him to do anything but impress on the East Coast. There were a couple of articles put out at Gang Green Nation, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ganggreennation.com/2014/5/10/5703764/jets-pick-shaquelle-evans-with-114th-pick-in-2014-nfl-draft">the first about the instant reaction</a>. This was followed by a more comprehensive piece by a Notre Dame fan </span><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ganggreennation.com/2014/5/10/5703872/shaquelle-evans-untapped-potential">talking about his upside and untapped potential</a>.</li>
<li> <span><span>Jordan Zumwalt</span> landed in a 3-4 defense and a place where linebackers thrive at pick 192 by the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>. </span><span><a target="_blank" href="http://www.steelers.com/news/article-1/Steelers-Select-LB-Jordan-Zumwalt-in-the-Sixth-Round/e88fed67-a908-46b9-9350-b65e43cc70b9">Here is the press release at Steelers.com</a></span><span> featuring an interview with the Steelers linebackers coach Keith Butler and a transcript of a conference call with Zumwalt. Highlight quote from Butler on Jordan: </span> </li>
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<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Arial Regular', Arial, sans-serif; "><b>He’s an inside guy but does he have the versatility to play outside?</b></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Arial Regular', Arial, sans-serif; ">He’s a long, tall kid, but I would see him as an inside guy too at this point. He’s a kid that can provide some backup for us, and he should be able to play some special teams for us. Great competition at the inside linebacker position, we are going to have some.</p>
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<p>And, as always Jordan provide both a great quote and a ridiculous moment:</p>
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<p><span><b>How tough is it waiting to be drafted?</b></span></p>
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<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: left; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; padding: 0px;">You remember when you were a kid and you were waiting for Christmas? But it’s like you get to meet Santa this time. You know what I mean? It’s pretty tough.</p>
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<p>Jordan Zumwalt in his Steelers garb, outside his draft party. <a href="http://t.co/OtCYA4CVLu">pic.twitter.com/OtCYA4CVLu</a></p>
— Ryan Kartje (@Ryan_Kartje) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ryan_Kartje/statuses/465319253248581632">May 11, 2014</a>
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<ul>
<li><span>Behind The Steel Curtain <a target="_blank" href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2014-nfl-draft/2014/5/10/5704624/steelers-draft-results-jordan-zumwalt-linebacker-round-6">also looked at the pick initially</a>. Then they <a target="_blank" href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2014/5/10/5705138/grading-the-steelers-draft-through-rounds-4-7">gave the pick a B</a> going through their post-draft grading process, noting his special teams prowess and all of the positive traits that we've grown to admire about Zumwalt over the years.</span></li>
<li><span>It was good news after the final pick was made <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2014/5/10/5703808/undrafted-free-agent-signings-tracker-2014-nfl-draft">for a few more Bruins</a>, as <span>Brandon Sermons</span> <a target="_blank" href="http://dailybruin.com/2014/05/10/db-brandon-sermons-signs-with-cardinals-as-undrafted-free-agent/">signed on with the Arizona Cardinals talented secondary after his impressive Pro Day</a>. It'll be a long road for Sermons, but hopefully he can follow <span>Nate Chandler</span> (currently starting LT for Carolina), <span>Derrick Coleman</span> (Seahawks), <span>Sheldon Price</span> (<a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a>) and <span>Aaron Hester</span> (<a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Broncos</a>) as undrafted free agents that make it onto the roster or as practice squad players that make it on contending teams.</span></li>
<li><span>Another Bruin that has gotten good news is <span>Darius Bell</span>:</span></li>
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<p>S/O to my lil bro <a href="https://twitter.com/dariusbell3">@dariusbell3</a> headed to Baltimore to start his NFL career! Love u bro. Time to take yo spot</p>
— <span>Kahlil Bell</span> (@KahlilBell32) <a href="https://twitter.com/KahlilBell32/statuses/465295133492006912">May 11, 2014</a>
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<p>
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<p>Some Bruins to keep an eye on for mini-camp invites include <span>Malcolm Jones</span>, <span>Stan McKay</span>, Seali'i Epenesa, <span>Keenan Graham</span> and other former Bruins working for a shot at the NFL. I will try to update BN as news rolls in over the next week or so.</p>
<p>Go Bruins!</p>
<p><b><i>UPDATE: Coach Jim Mora gives a short update on UDFA's. Congrats to all 3 so far.</i></b></p>
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<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Brandon Sermons to the Cardinals, Darius Bell to the Ravens, Saili&#39;i Epenesa to the Patriots...stay tuned, more to come.&#10;<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23BruinRevolution&amp;src=hash">#BruinRevolution</a></p>&mdash; Jim Mora (@UCLACoachMora) <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLACoachMora/statuses/465581504735612928">May 11, 2014</a></blockquote></p>
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https://www.bruinsnation.com/ucla_bruin_football/2014/5/11/5706304/bruin-bites-post-nfl-draft-editionIE Angel2014-05-10T18:18:49-07:002014-05-10T18:18:49-07:00Darius Bell signed by Baltimore<h3 class="link-title"><a rel="nofollow" href="/rss/stream/5457943">Darius Bell signed by&nbsp;Baltimore</a></h3>
<div class="description"><p><p>.</p></p></div>
https://www.bruinsnation.com/2014/5/10/5705582/darius-bell-signed-by-baltimoreJerry Neu's Jockstrap2014-05-10T14:14:08-07:002014-05-10T14:14:08-07:00BOOM! J.Z. Off to the Steel City!
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<figcaption>Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sport</figcaption>
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<p>Pittsburgh Steelers select UCLA middle linebacker Jordan Zumwalt in the sixth round of 2014 NFL round.</p> <p>And BOOM keeps coming for our <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bruinsnation.com/">UCLA Bruins</a> in the third day of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">2014 NFL draft</a>. One of the best franchises in the NFL and a team legendary for it's vaunted tradition of linebackers, just selected <span>Jordan Zumwalt</span> in the sixth round. Our friends at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2014-nfl-draft/2014/5/10/5704624/steelers-draft-results-jordan-zumwalt-linebacker-round-6">Behind the Steel Curtain</a> seems to have <a target="_blank" href="http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2014-nfl-draft/2014/5/10/5704624/steelers-draft-results-jordan-zumwalt-linebacker-round-6">pretty good idea in what they are getting in number 35</a>:</p>
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<p>Intelligence, fiery emotions and a permanent chip of an inferiority complex planted on a shoulder. That's UCLA's Jordan Zumwalt, the Steelers' first of two 6th round picks in the 2014 NFL Draft.</p>
<p>Without mincing words, there's a reason he's a sixth round pick, but he has the same kind of overachieving manner about him that <span>Vince Williams</span> did - the Steelers also took Williams in the sixth round.</p>
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<p>How can we describe Jordan? Well, I think we can start with this hit from the Nebraska game two years ago, which perhaps signaled a new era in UCLA football:<br><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/E31he05loTg" height="480" width="640"></iframe> <br> And of course there was this one from last year's Sun Bowl (he was the MVP):</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/psqVP6ZqQsc" height="360" width="640"></iframe></p>
<p>If you want the full highlights</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/DHGyBm7-ssQ" height="360" width="640"></iframe></p>
<p>As good as he has been - the best thing about Jordan has been his tenacity, dedication and loyalty to his team-mates. It's interesting as our guys keep getting drafted this year, I keep thinking [INSERT HIS NAME - Barr, XSF et al.] - he was one of my favorite Bruins of all time. Perhaps it tells us how much we have really enjoyed watching the program last two years.</p>
<p>We are all so happy for Jordan. Hopefully he gets to shine in the Steel City - and make the same impression behind those steel curtains as he made in West LA.</p>
<p>GO BRUINS.</p>
https://www.bruinsnation.com/ucla_bruin_football/2014/5/10/5704790/Pittsburgh-Steelers-Jordan-Zumwalt-UCLA-Bruins-2014-NFL-draftNestor2014-05-10T12:19:20-07:002014-05-10T12:19:20-07:00BOOM! Shaq Jets to New York!
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<figcaption>Eric Francis</figcaption>
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<p>Shaq Evans will be heading to the bright lights of NYC, after being taken by the Jets with the 15th pick of the 4th round - 115th overall selection - in the 2014 NFL Draft. Congrats to Shaq!</p> <p>The BOOM's keep on coming this morning for the Bruins! With the 15th pick of the 4th round, and 115th overall pick of the 2014 NFL Draft, the New York Jets selected Shaquelle Evans to help boost their receiving corps.</p>
<p>Along with Joe Fauria and Eddie Vanderdoes, Shaq is one of the growing number of players who have recently transferred away from or gotten out of commitments to Notre Dame to shine at UCLA. Despite playing his freshman year in South Bend and dealing with injuries throughout his first season with the Bruins, he finished his career in Westwood with 47 catches for 709 yards and 9 TD's in 2013. His <span>126 catches for 1,895 yards over three seasons are the 10th most catches and 13th most receiving yards all-time for the Bruins.</span></p>
<p>At the NFL Combine, Evans measured in at 6'1, 213 lbs, being one of the seemingly rare times when a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/shaq-evans?id=2543761">school's notes accurately reflect</a> a player's size. Heading into the Sun Bowl a<span>t the end of last season, Ralph Irvin talked with Shaq for UCLABruins.com about his career at UCLA. It is a nice interview, along with a breakdown of some of his highlights. </span></p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Y9q_4gj0lTY?rel=0" height="315" width="560"></iframe> <br id="1399747004195"></p>
<p>Speaking of highlights, here are a couple of videos from his time at UCLA. Here he is digging out a low pass from Brett Hundley from last season's Cal game (via ESPN).</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/B_Yf_WmJvZw?rel=0" height="315" width="560"></iframe> <br id="1399748575908"></p>
<p>Harris HIghlights has put together an extended highlight video of Shaq.</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/L7CbZwWRdGY?rel=0" height="315" width="560"></iframe> <br id="1399749084703"></p>
<p>During Senior Bowl week, he talked with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpFKSd1b198">FoxSports.com's Annabel Stephan</a> about his time at UCLA, playing for Jim Mora and how he was preparing for the draft.</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/HpFKSd1b198?rel=0" height="315" width="560"></iframe> <br id="1399748835688"></p>
<p>Congratulations to Shaq as he takes the next step toward his dream of earning his way into the NFL! Also congrats to the Jets, who have just added a hard working, quality receiver to their roster.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/imported_assets/2192501/BnSh_InCAAAyavm.jpg"><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/imported_assets/2192501/BnSh_InCAAAyavm_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="Bnsh_incaaayavm_medium"></a></p>
<p>via <a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BnSh_InCAAAyavm.jpg">pbs.twimg.com</a></p>
https://www.bruinsnation.com/ucla_bruin_football/2014/5/10/5704116/boom-new-york-jets-select-shaq-evans-in-the-5th-round-of-the-2014-nflPatroclus2014-05-10T12:00:12-07:002014-05-10T12:00:12-07:00Bruin Tweets: Congrats to XSF!
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<figcaption>Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Xavier Su'a Filo is taken with the first pick of the second round by the Houston Texans.</p> <p>Congratulations to <span>Xavier Su'a-Filo</span>!</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p>CRANKIN' MUSIC DOWN TO H-TOWN!!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TexansBaby&src=hash">#TexansBaby</a></p>
— <span>Xavier Su'a-Filo</span> (@_XRA1) <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1/statuses/464914293821960192">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Coach Mora, yet again, was ready:</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p>Congratulations to a great young man and a Great UCLA Bruin, Xavier Su'a-<a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a>, the 33rd pick in the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">2014 NFL Draft</a> <a href="http://t.co/967pAHTSZY">pic.twitter.com/967pAHTSZY</a></p>
— Jim Mora (@UCLACoachMora) <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLACoachMora/statuses/464909390986752000">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>This is the highest a UCLA lineman has gone in the draft since Jonathan Ogden.</p>
<p>Also two <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bruinsnation.com/">UCLA Bruins</a> picked before the first Trogan.</p>
<p>And just like for <span>Anthony Barr</span>, the congratulations came in from everywhere for XSF:</p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>So incredibly proud of my brother, the XMAN <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a>. Honestly, one of the best men I know. Houston scored big time! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23BruinsInTheNFL&src=hash">#BruinsInTheNFL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Draft&src=hash">#Draft</a></p>
— <span>Nick Ekbatani</span> (@nickekbatani) <a href="https://twitter.com/nickekbatani/statuses/464908996717993984">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my Boy <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> ! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Texans&src=hash">#Texans</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%232014NFLDraft&src=hash">#2014NFLDraft</a></p>
— Brett A. Hundley Jr (@BrettHundley17) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrettHundley17/statuses/464908600263987200">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>My brotha <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> Being the first pick of the second round!!! Congrats man, much love forever!! Tear it up!!!!</p>
— <span>Devin Lucien</span> (@D_Lucien15) <a href="https://twitter.com/D_Lucien15/statuses/464908083202752514">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my boy <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> on getting drafted to the TEXANS! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23BruinsInTheDraft&src=hash">#BruinsInTheDraft</a></p>
— EV4™ (@E_VanderdoesIV) <a href="https://twitter.com/E_VanderdoesIV/statuses/464907211651559424">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my bro <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> to the Texans! So happy for you man</p>
— <span>Kylie Fitts</span> (@K_Fitts93) <a href="https://twitter.com/K_Fitts93/statuses/464907089488257024">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my big bro <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> man I'm happy as hell for you!!</p>
— <span>Eldridge Massington</span> (@OH_GOTTAMAN) <a href="https://twitter.com/OH_GOTTAMAN/statuses/464906666090438656">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my UCE <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> getting drafted by the Texans ! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%231love&src=hash">#1love</a></p>
— MEECH (@goines_simon) <a href="https://twitter.com/goines_simon/statuses/464906655033868288">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>X!!!!!!!</p>
— <span>Myles Jack</span> (@ClickClack_Jack) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClickClack_Jack/statuses/464905820518354944">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> ! Any QB under center in Houston is lucky to have you man! Good luck! Go Texans!</p>
— <span>Jerry Neuheisel</span> (@jerryneuheisel) <a href="https://twitter.com/jerryneuheisel/statuses/464906413496467456">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>S/O to my boy X!!!! Congrats!! <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a></p>
— <span>Jalen Ortiz</span> (@The1NOnly_Ocho) <a href="https://twitter.com/The1NOnly_Ocho/statuses/464906366528651264">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Let's go X!!!!!</p>
— Kenny Clark (@KCBoutThatLife) <a href="https://twitter.com/KCBoutThatLife/statuses/464906111212998658">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my lil bro <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> to finding a home in houston. A perfect fit in their zone run scheme. (cont) <a href="http://t.co/1AcYqle6vJ">http://t.co/1AcYqle6vJ</a></p>
— <span>Alterraun Verner</span> (@Alvern_1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Alvern_1/statuses/464907093502595072">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my bro <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> On get drafted by Houston! | <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Monster&src=hash">#Monster</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23MakeEmBelievers&src=hash">#MakeEmBelievers</a> | Now go change the game, don't just be apart of it!</p>
— <span>Asiantii Woulard</span> (@Asiantii2_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Asiantii2_/statuses/464908742656405504">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my guy <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> .. U deserve it bra</p>
— <span>Nelson Rosario</span> (@AyeNellz_) <a href="https://twitter.com/AyeNellz_/statuses/464909709305073664">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>My brother <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> is a TEXAN!!!!!!!! So proud if you big homie!!!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23DocLock&src=hash">#DocLock</a></p>
— <span>Caleb Benenoch</span> (@UCLA_CB74) <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLA_CB74/statuses/464910193680072705">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to my boy <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> . You deserve it bro.</p>
— <span>Kevin McReynolds</span> (@LifeofKM) <a href="https://twitter.com/LifeofKM/statuses/464911847439609856">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to another great bruin being drafted the future is very bright for you <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23BruinRevolution&src=hash">#BruinRevolution</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLAAthletics">@UCLAAthletics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Angus_McClure">@Angus_McClure</a></p>
— <span>Datone Jones</span> (@IAM_Dat_One) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAM_Dat_One/statuses/464914577059102721">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to the homie <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a></p>
— <span>Anthony Stover</span> (@Anth0nySt0ver) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anth0nySt0ver/statuses/464917620311859200">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Congrats to the USO <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> I'm excited for u bro bro</p>
— <span>Jerry Rice Jr</span>. (@JRtherealgoatJR) <a href="https://twitter.com/JRtherealgoatJR/statuses/464919198352048128">May 10, 2014</a>
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<p>It's like a proud papa seeing his son take his first steps:</p>
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<p>Congrats <a href="https://twitter.com/_XRA1">@_XRA1</a> !!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23NFL&src=hash">#NFL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23NFLDraft&src=hash">#NFLDraft</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Houston&src=hash">#Houston</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Texans&src=hash">#Texans</a> .... <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23UCLA&src=hash">#UCLA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23WhosNext&src=hash">#WhosNext</a></p>
— Adrian Klemm (@IAMKLEMM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAMKLEMM/statuses/464906921330229251">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>I'm sure the Houston media can't wait to cover him, like Jon Gold did</p>
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<p>Xavier Su'a-Filo is one of the best guys I've ever covered. He'll be a pro for a decade. Nice pick by the Texans.</p>
— Jon Gold (@TheCoolSub) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheCoolSub/statuses/464905819210153984">May 9, 2014</a>
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<p>Keep representing UCLA well, XSF.</p>
<p>Go Bruins.</p>
https://www.bruinsnation.com/ucla_bruin_football/2014/5/10/5702234/headlines-in-the-bruin-twitterverse-congratulations-to-xavier-sua-filoMeriones2014-05-10T10:54:30-07:002014-05-10T10:54:30-07:00BOOM! Marsh to Fly With the Seahawks
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<figcaption>Stephen Dunn</figcaption>
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<p>The Seattle Seahawks have taken Cassius Marsh with the 108th overall selection in the NFL Draft. Congrats Cassius!</p> <p>The third day of the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft" class="sbn-auto-link">2014 NFL Draft</a> has started off with a BOOM! With the 8th selection of the day, and 108th overall pick in this year's draft, the Seattle Seahawks selected Bruin defensive end/<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=5&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CE8QFjAE&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailynews.com%2Fsports%2F20131219%2Fuclas-cassius-marsh-could-fill-numerous-roles-as-nfl-prospect&ei=K2BuU7WXH8KJogTj74LgBg&usg=AFQjCNEUotNgAhFnJvOyQNjQMRKyvTj-qw&sig2=Gucapb7IxJz5ih-WW8d9CA&bvm=bv.66330100,d.cGU" target="_blank">sometimes tight end</a> <span>Cassius Marsh</span>.</p>
<p>At the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine" class="sbn-auto-link">NFL Combine</a> earlier this spring, <a href="http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/cassius-marsh?id=2543868" target="_blank">Cassius measured in at 6'4, 252 lbs</a> and tested as <a href="http://www.nfl.com/combine/top-performers#year=2014&workout=TWENTY_YARD_SHUTTLE&position=DL" target="_blank">one of the two or three</a> most<a href="http://www.nfl.com/combine/top-performers#year=2014&workout=THREE_CONE_DRILL&position=DL" target="_blank"> agile D-line prospects</a>. His size isn't quite up there with your prototypical NFL defensive ends, but his versatility along with his attitude and determination will help him earn a spot on the Seahawks roster, likely as a rush end or outside linebacker.</p>
<p>Speaking of his versatility, during UCLA's Pro Day, he worked out at three positions, on both sides of the ball. Here's <a target="_blank" href="http://www.insidesocal.com/ucla/2014/03/11/jim-mora-reels-off-insane-40-yard-dash-times-after-ucla-pro-day/">video of Coach Mora</a> at the end of that day, with the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bruinsnation.com/ucla_bruin_football/2014/3/12/5500146/football-notes-ucla-pro-day-and-new-old-bruins">transcipt of that bit here</a>.</p>
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<p>Cassius was amazing today. These guys that were out here today aren't going to go to another school where a guy like Cassius is going to do what he did. Cassius worked out as a defensive end, he worked out as an outside linebacker, and he worked out as a tight end So you talk about versatility. I mean that's amazing. I've never seen that.</p>
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<p>Mora may have been talking up Cassius just a bit after Pro Day, but the motor is definitely there, along with the ability to play a bit of offense if needed, as shown by his 2 TD catches over the past 2 seasons to go along with his defensive performance. His draft stock was also helped by a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=110088&draftyear=2014&genpos=DE">strong performance during the week of the East-West Shrine Game</a>.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>PROSPECTS WHO HELPED THEMSELVES AT THE SHRINE GAME: 4. DE Cassius Marsh, UCLA (6-4, 260, 4.92, #99)...When the flip is switched, Marsh is an active, disruptive force who can penetrate the pocket or string plays outside before making the stop. And his fiery attitude was on display in practice as he made several impressive stops in drills, fighting through blocks and tracking the ball. Marsh needs to stay motivated to allow that competitive streak show, but he's a force rushing the passer and stopping the run. - Dane Brugler, NFLDraftScout.com</p>
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<p> </p>
<p>In the leadup to last year's Sun Bowl, Cassius talked with UCLABruins.com's Ralph Irvin about his four years at UCLA and particularly the highs of the last couple of seasons.</p>
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<p>While I can't say that Cassius has gotten himself fully under control - or that he ever will - I think that is probably for the best. He is a player who as much as anyone that I have seen wearing the blue and gold plays with his heart on his sleeve and feeding on his emotions. Sometimes they get the best of him, but they also drive him to make spectacular plays on the gridiron.</p>
<p>While we are going to miss him attacking whoever lines up under center this fall for Southern Cal - and playing against the 49ers for Pete Carroll will be a particular PITA for me - we all wish Cassius the best as he starts his NFL career!</p>
<p>Go Cassius, and Go Bruins!</p>
https://www.bruinsnation.com/2014/5/10/5703790/cassius-marsh-seattle-seahawks-nfl-draft-ucla-bruinsPatroclus2014-05-10T08:30:11-07:002014-05-10T08:30:11-07:002014 NFL Draft Day 3 Open Thread
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<p>Tracking the fortunes of Jordan Zumwalt, Shaq Evans and other Bruins as the final four rounds of the 2014 NFL Draft unfold.</p> <p>This morning is the opening of the third and final day of the 2014 NFL Draft, where teams try to fill out their rosters and find a few diamonds in the rough along with the role players who will go on to provide the foundation of their respetive future teams.</p>
<p><span>Jordan Zumwalt</span> is one of those Bruins who will be waiting to hear their name called today, with the 4th round getting underway at 9am Pacific/Noon Eastern time with Houston again making the opening pick of the day.</p>
<p>The mock drafts don't tend to go this deep into the draft, but there is continuing draft coverage looking at the players left on the board. Per CBS Sports, Shaq Evans is the <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24556730/nfl-draft-top-talent-available-entering-day-3" target="_blank">5th best wide receiver </a>still available as the 4th round opens, while SB Nation has Zumwalt and <span>Cassius Marsh</span> rated as worthy of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft/2014/5/9/5702154/nfl-draft-2014-best-players-available-round-four" target="_blank">being taken around the 5th or 6th round</a>.</p>
<p>Today's draft coverage will begin shortly on ESPN, along with streaming on WatchESPN/ESPN3.com, while countless other outlets - including<a target="_blank" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft"> sbnation.com</a> - will be providing Live analysis and discussion of the selections.</p>
<p>Go Bruins!</p>
https://www.bruinsnation.com/ucla_bruin_football/2014/5/10/5702616/2014-nfl-draft-day-3-jordan-zumwalt-shaq-evans-cassius-marshPatroclus