UCLA defensive lineman Kenny Clark declares for the NFL draft
Bruins nose tackle Kenny Clark breaks through the Arizona State offensive line during a 2014 game.
UCLA defensive lineman Kenny Clark will declare for the NFL draft and will forgo his senior season at UCLA, Clark announced Monday on Twitter.
The loss of Clark, though not a major surprise, deals another blow to a UCLA run defense that was shredded by Nebraska in Saturday’s Foster Farms Bowl. Clark had 75 tackles this season, 11 tackles for loss and six sacks, all second on the team
Clark, who is 6 feet 3 and 310 pounds, said last week that he received a second-round grade in his NFL draft evaluation. ESPN analyst Todd McShay said Clark was easily the best player on the Bruins’ defense this season after the injury to linebacker Myles Jack.
“I’ve heard some people say first round, and it wouldn’t shock me,” McShay said. “I think worst case is probably going to be second round for him. But at the end of the day I think he’s just a really good all-around football player.”
Join the conversation on Facebook >>
On Twitter, Clark thanked UCLA fans for the past three years and added, “I am ready to take the next step forward.”
Twitter: @zhelfand
MORE SPORTS NEWS
UCLA 2016 recruits and commits in All-American games
Nebraska rushes past UCLA, 37-29, to win the Foster Farms Bowl
UCLA offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone’s status uncertain for bowl game
Go beyond the scoreboard
Get the latest on L.A.'s teams in the daily Sports Report newsletter.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
