Jim Mora: UCLA’s Takkarist McKinley could play against Arizona State

College football teams usually don’t get midseason help in the form of outside players, but UCLA is going to have a new face on the field against Arizona State next week.

Defensive end Takkarist McKinley signed his letter of intent last Thursday after playing the 2013 season at Contra Costa Community College. On Wednesday, UCLA Coach Jim Mora said he expects McKinley to get playing time against the Sun Devils after the transfer began practicing with the team this week, a quick turnaround for someone who was enrolled in community college last week.

“It’s a good time to use him,” Mora said. “He can give us 10-15 snaps a game, and we’re excited about him.”

McKinley originally committed to California in 2013, but was a non-qualifier. He played a season of community college, then a review of his records proved that there was an error, giving him immediate eligible. Last season, he recorded 10 sacks and 18.5 tackles for loss.

He won’t start for the Bruins next week, but he should get a good chunk of playing time.

“I don’t think he brings anything we don’t have in other guys, but I think he adds to what we already have. He’s 6-foot-3, he’s 235 pounds, and he runs a 10.5-second 100-meter dash. Now it’s just getting into the type of shape he needs to be in to compete at this level.”

For more Bruin observations, follow Everett Cook on Twitter @everettcook