Hair Puts Welcome Mat Out

Junior tight end J.J. Hair was more relieved than worried when he learned that UCLA had recruited three freshmen at his position.

“Last year, we didn’t recruit any tight ends and then we had some injuries,” said Hair, who caught two passes last season as Marcedes Lewis’ backup. “So, my first reaction was, ‘Great, now we finally have some help.’ ”

The freshmen -- Ryan Moya, Logan Paulsen and Adam Heater -- have shown during the first week of camp that they can contribute this season, but Hair has responded to their challenge.

“He’s been making some good plays and catches,” Coach Karl Dorrell said of the former Capistrano Valley High standout. “J.J. does a great job for us in the running game at the line of scrimmage.

“That’s really his strength more than receiving.”

Looking for more ways to get the football to Lewis, the Bruins will use multiple tight ends this season. That prospect agrees with Hair.

“It’s easy to see how talented the freshmen are, and I’ve been trying to show I’m there for them,” said Hair, who during the off-season plays guitar and writes songs for a rock band he helped start that is made up primarily of UCLA athletes.

“I’m cool with my role because I know next year should be my time.”

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Center Mike McCloskey (shoulder), linebacker Wesley Walker (knee), wide receiver Gavin Ketchum (shoulder), defensive end William Snead (ankle), cornerback Rodney Van (stomach) and wide receiver Brandon Breazell (family death) did not practice on Sunday.

All but Walker and Ketchum are expected to return to the field his week, according to Dorrell. ... UCLA will practice twice today.