4-Star ATH Jaason Lewis Reportedly Decommits from UCLA

Jaason Lewis isn't heading to Hollywood after all.

The scintillating 4-star Virginia Beach athlete backed off his UCLA commitment Monday evening, according to Rivals.com reporter Adam Friedman:

Lewis leaves the Bruins with six pledges in the 2015 recruiting class. His departure drops UCLA from No. 19 to No. 24 in 247Sports' team rankings, creating an increased need for skill players on both sides of the ball.

The 6'3", 233-pound Ocean Lakes High School standout is a do-it-all playmaker who could take on a variety of roles at the next level. His physical stature and speed (clocked at 4.50 in the 40-yard dash, per 247Sports) provides Lewis with matchup advantages at wide receiver, running back and defensive back.

He excelled in the secondary as a junior, securing four interceptions and seven tackles for loss. Lewis projects favorable at safety if his ultimate destination is defense.

College coaches have plenty to consider when taking him into account on offense. Lewis is a multidimensional playmaker who gives opponents fits regardless of how the ball gets into his hands.

He caught 33 passes for 498 yards and six touchdowns in 2013. Lewis gained another 515 yards and eight scores on the ground.

UCLA head coach Jim Mora Jr. turned heads when he reached across the country to land a talent like Lewis. The potential of pairing him with 5-star quarterback Josh Rosen and 4-star tight end Aliz'e Jones provided plenty of promise for the team's future offensive attack.

"I'm looking forward to it," Lewis told HamptonRoads.com reporter Larry Rubama following his February commitment. "I think I can bring a lot of different things. Coach Mora said I'm more of a big back, but I can also break the long runs."

Instead, the Bruins are left looking for other options. Mora may not have to search far.

In-state targets Stanley Norman (Gardena) and Equanimeous St. Brown (Anaheim) present possibilities at receiver, while Florida running back T.J. Simmons views UCLA as a favorite. California product Marvell Tell and New Orleans recruit Hunter Dale are noteworthy safety prospects on UCLA's radar.

Lewis, rated No. 12 nationally among athletes in 247Sports' composite rankings, reopens his recruitment with plenty of opportunities.

Georgia, Louisville and LSU offered earlier this month, per 247Sports writer Brandi Mills, who also  reported his plans to spend official visits at Miami and Arizona State.

Lewis is currently projected to sign with Tennessee by 53 percent of expert predictions in 247Sports' Crystal Ball.

Just three months after UCLA appeared to have claimed this prized recruit, the nationwide race is back at full speed.

Information courtesy of 247Sports unless otherwise noted.

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