Chris Clark Commits to UCLA: 4-Star TE Will Be Major Offensive Weapon for Bruins

The long and winding recruitment of Connecticut tight end Chris Clark has led him to Los Angeles, per ESPN College Football:

The 4-star prospect announced his intentions Wednesday morning to play with UCLA, giving head coach Jim Mora an early reason (5:30 PT) to celebrate national signing day. Clark chose the Bruins over fellow finalist Michigan.

He previously pledged to the Wolverines in June, but he decommitted following the dismissal of former Wolverines coach Brady Hoke. After also weighing offers from Texas and USC, the 6'6", 247-pound playmaker opted not to re-pledge.

This is the third commitment announcement for Clark, who initially joined North Carolina's class last spring. It represents a key recruiting victory for Mora over Jim Harbaugh, who was considered a formidable contender to sign the well-rounded recruit.

Clark spoke highly of the new head coach upon his arrival, comparing him to one of sports' largest icons, per Nick Baumgardner of MLive: "I think Michigan's going to turn back into a powerhouse with him. He's like the LeBron James of coaching it feels like."

The allure wasn't enough to overcome the comfort he feels with UCLA. Clark picked up an offer from the Bruins in November and spent time on campus last month.

He is a huge out-of-state addition for Mora, who is looking to surround top-ranked quarterback Josh Rosen with offensive talent. 

Clark, rated second nationally among tight ends and 85th overall in 247Sports' composite rankings, is a college-ready talent who brings a blend of physicality and finesse.

His ability to consistently clear paths in the run attack helps separate him from the pack. Clark can punish defensive ends off of the edge and reach the second level to eliminate linebackers.

No tight end in this class has softer hands, providing Rosen and UCLA with an immediate safety valve in the intermediate passing game. He dominated at Nike camp last spring and consistently outclassed opponents as an upperclassman at Avon Old Farms.  

The Bruins will bring him in this summer. If things go well during his first training camp, expect to see him on the field in 2015.

Recruit ratings courtesy of 247Sports.