Josh Wariboko to UCLA: Bruins Land 4-Star OG Prospect
Josh Wariboko opted to reconsider his options after originally committing to Oklahoma. The coveted offensive lineman continued the recruitment process before deciding to join UCLA, per Eddie Radoseevich of Rivals. However, as Rob Cassidy of Rivals reported, he has yet to sign his letter of intent.
Radoseevich provided a synopsis of Wariboko discussing his reasons for attending UCLA, as well as a pre-decision image from the scene of the announcement:
Wariboko is a 4-star prospect who ranks just outside the top 100 for the class of 2015, according to 247Sports' composite rankings. He rated as the No. 6 guard overall and the No. 1 player from the state of Oklahoma available among this year's group.
The Casady School product combines ideal size with immense power to create a very intriguing interior line prospect. He's shown the ability to thrive both as a run-blocker and in pass protection, albeit against high school competition.
Edward Lewis of Rivals passed along some dominant reps from the Rivals Challenge back in June:
His low center of gravity and strength allow him to gain serious leverage up front. It may take some time for him to develop his technique to better handle the college competition, but his raw skills are exactly what a coaching staff is looking for.
Normally linemen with his combination of size and athleticism are considered for the all-important left tackle position. He lacks the quickness to deal with edge rushers, however, and is a prototypical guard who can rely more on his power.
Wariboko told Jacob Unruh of The Oklahoman that he was enjoying the recruiting, which is why he decided to reconsider all of his options.
"It's really cool," he said. "It's stressful, but it's cool at the same time. I'm just trying to take it day by day."
Now that he's made his decision, it's his job to live up to the hype.
Offensive line is a tricky position to forecast because there isn't a rotation like at some other positions. Wariboko is ready to play should an opening arise, but he could very well spend his first full season working on his technique solely in practices.
Once he does crack the lineup, however, he should become a stalwart. So while the signing of offensive line prospects rarely brings about the same attention as a quarterback or defensive end, he represents a very solid addition to the 2015 class.
