UCLA remains in pursuit of USC commit Mique Juarez

Mique Juarez wandered around the field Wednesday at The Opening in search of his cleats, he said, as other players ran through football drills.

The 6-foot-1, 210-pound linebacker also has been wandering between USC and UCLA in search for the school he loves -- and loves him -- the most.

Juarez, from North Torrance High, made an unofficial visit to USC in June to watch Rising Stars camp. The following day he participated at UCLA’s Elite Camp.

“I like both schools,” Juarez said at The Opening. “Obviously I am committed to USC, but I went out to show my love to UCLA -- they’ve been showing love to me, so I’m just showing respect to the school.”

Four other players at The Opening have committed to USC and two have committed to UCLA. Juarez said both school’s commits “are all friendly” and “talk about the programs,” but do not discuss recruiting.

Juarez said he would make official visits to Nebraska, Michigan and Notre Dame in the fall.

“USC and UCLA, I don’t really need to take my official visits,” he said. “They are just down the street from me so I can show up any time I want.”

Juarez participated in the combine Wednesday morning and ran the 40-yard dash in 4.69 seconds. He did not compete in one-on-one drills in the afternoon.

He said he looked forward to proving he could “keep up with the athletes out here” on Thursday.