Lokeni Toailoa to UCLA: Bruins Land 4-Star LB Prospect

UCLA added some punch to its defense and 2016 recruiting class on Monday in the form of linebacker Lokeni Toailoa.

Greg Biggins of Scout.com reported the news and pointed out that it was a particularly difficult decision for Toailoa between two local schools:

According to 247Sports’ composite rankings, Toailoa is a 4-star prospect and the No. 1-rated inside linebacker in the nation. The 6’1”, 212-pound recruit is the No. 6-rated player in the state of California and No. 59 player in the nation.

Not surprisingly, Toailoa received plenty of interest from West Coast schools in the Pac-12 throughout the recruiting process, including UCLA, USC, Oregon and Arizona State, among others.

Notre Dame and Oklahoma were also squarely in the mix as national powers and recognizable football schools with recruiting footprints throughout the country.

Ultimately, he chose to stay home for a Bruins squad that finished 10-3 last season and beat Kansas State in the Alamo Bowl.

Toailoa has a number of strengths, but his ability to defend against the run is what immediately stands out.

He is a physical force who loves to pursue running backs in space and deliver a big hit when he gets there. He sheds blocks with relative ease and uses his athleticism to get involved in pass coverage as well, but his playmaking abilities against the run will help him earn playing time right away.

There may be plenty of pressure as the top-rated inside linebacker in his class playing near home, but he has the talent to deliver on the big stage.

The Bruins certainly hope that is the case.

Unless otherwise noted, recruiting information courtesy of 247Sports.