Toughness and competitive greatness are qualities Coach Jim Mora says he seeks in his UCLA football recruits. There’s little doubt that the Bruins’ 18-member recruiting class announced Wednesday is topped by two players already displaying those characteristics: defensive end Jaelan Phillips from Redlands East Valley High and cornerback Darnay Holmes from Calabasas.
Phillips, 6 feet 6 and 250 pounds, was considered the best defensive player last month at the U.S. Army All-American game, where he played before enrolling early at UCLA.
“I think he has the rare blend of size, speed, athleticism, tenacity and intelligence,” Mora said
Phillips gave a hint to his physical and mental allure, saying, “I want to be an academic All-American.