Five-star linebacker Mique Juarez of North Torrance High signs with UCLA
Mique Juarez, North Torrance High Linebacker, talks to reporters after committing to UCLA during National Signing Day in Torrance.
For the fourth year in a row, the Los Angeles Times player of the year has signed with UCLA.
In 2013 it was receiver Thomas Duarte. The next year it was defensive back Jaleel Wadood. Then quarterback Josh Rosen.
Now, it’s linebacker Mique Juarez of North Torrance High, who signed with the Bruins on Wednesday.
Juarez is UCLA’s only five-star recruit in 2016. By midday Wednesday, before Juarez’s commitment, UCLA’s class was ranked ninth in the nation and No. 1 in the Pac-12 Conference, according to Scout.com.
Juarez had committed to USC before Steve Sarkisian was fired. He chose UCLA over Alabama, Brigham Young and Mississippi.
Juarez figures to make an immediate impact at one of UCLA’s thinnest position. He is widely regarded as one of the best, if not the best, outside linebacker in the 2016 class.
Juarez may remind some UCLA fans of Myles Jack: He is an all-around athlete who would fit at multiple positions.
Twitter: @zhelfand
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