Jerry Mixon, 3-star linebacker, has high praise for UCLA; Washington, Oregon trips next

Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep three-star linebacker Jerry Mixon has already generated scholarship offers from half of the Pac-12 Conference.

This month, the 6-foot-2, 225-pound 'backer is checking out a few of his options.

Most recently, Mixon went to UCLA - and was blown away by the Bruins.

“The UCLA trip was good, actually," he said. "I met a lot of good people. I feel like that could be a potential spot for me, as far as the linebacker position. I think (Ken Norton Jr.) could guide me in my goal to make it to the NFL. He’s coached a lot of linebackers, including Bobby Wagner." 

Adding to Mixon's interest in UCLA is its proximity to home.

While that is not going to be the deciding factor in the linebacker's recruitment, it could help Chip Kelly's recruiting pitch. 

“I want to stay close to home, close to my family, but I wouldn’t make a decision based on that," Mixon said. "I feel like I could play anywhere in the country. I’d love to add to the traditions of great linebackers to make it to the NFL from UCLA if that's where I end up." 

Next up for Mixon is his third trip to the University of Washington, where he has already built a solid connection with the new coaching staff.

"It’s a good school, great environment," he said. "They’ve got a great group of coaches who have shown support to me and my family. I feel like I could play there, too, as well.”

Mixon will head immediately from Seattle to Eugene to take in Oregon's spring game Saturday. 

“That’s been my dream school since I was a kid," he said. "I’m really excited to go there, meet the new coaches and watch the spring game.” 

Regardless of where he ends up, Mixon believes he will have success at the linebacker position, which is quickly evolving in modern football. 

"You’ve got to be versatile because the game has been changing," he said. "They might put you on the slot receiver or a running back. The offense will think they have a mismatch (against linebackers), but I think I’m a great linebacker who can be versatile. I’ve got good feet, I can cover. I feel like I’m a good defender against the pass and the run.”

Turns out, most of the coaches in the Pac-12 Conference agree.