UCLA, Jim Mora Pick Up Much Needed Recruiting Win in 4-Star Ryan Newsome

Ryan Newsome has had a fascination with both Texas and UCLA for quite some time. Friday afternoon, the 4-star wide receiver from Aledo, Texas, announced he's taking his talents out West, rather than remaining in the state.

In a bit of a surprise, Newsome became UCLA's 16th overall commit during a ceremony at Aledo High School. He also became UCLA's second receiver pledge, joining California 4-star L.J. Reed.

Perhaps more importantly for those following on the West Coast, UCLA was able to win a key battle for a Texas high school standout with an in-state program. Newsome said the decision wasn't easy during a Thursday chat.

"I think it's whatever the best place for me. It's best place that God will lead me to," he said. "At the end of the day, a lot of people probably won't understand that, but to me, that's what it'll come down to."

The Bruins were in need of a marquee wide-receiver commit, and Newsome can be that type of player. Though he's not the biggest player at 5'8" and 170 pounds, Newsome uses breakaway speed, quickness and elusiveness to be a reliable slot receiver. Newsome's value, however, may be even greater for UCLA's special teams. He was an outstanding punt returner and kickoff returner for Aledo.

Newsome said he was "still torn" between Texas and UCLA Thursday afternoon, but added that he would make a decision Thursday night. The idea of playing close to home and playing for a group of coaches with high expectations for one of the state's most storied programs aided in making his decision.

Although Newsome was a big fan of the Texas coaching staff, he said UCLA offered him a chance to not only see playing time early, but also experience a new environment. Newsome said he was recruited by receivers coach Eric Yarber, but his primary recruiting contact was head coach Jim Mora. That was important to Newsome, as well.

"They said I'd have a chance to come in and play early," Newsome said. "They said they would utilize me all over the place, but mainly in the slot, and that I would get a chance to compete right away for a spot. I'll have opportunities to play as a freshman and make an immediate impact.

"That was big in my process. I knew wherever I went, I was coming to play and not to sit. Now I've just got to make sure to do the right things on my part."

Newsome said choosing against Texas was tough, particularly with several of his peers suggesting he play in Austin. But in the end, he said he's confident in his decision, and the Bruins are happy to have him.

"It's a weight lifted off my shoulders, man," Newsome said. "The whole recruiting process, I've seen a lot. I've seen crazy coaching carousels, and I've had a lot of coaches come to my house. To go to [Texas], I know it's going to be best for my future."

Damon Sayles is a national recruiting analyst with Bleacher Report. All quotes were retrieved firsthand. You can find Damon on Twitter: @DamonSayles