Friday, 4/18/97 Careers will be shaped when NFL Draft arrives
Chances slim that Bruins will be among top picks
By Zach Seal Daily Bruin Contributor Four members of the Bruin
football squad will have their attention focused on the television
set this weekend. UCLA seniors Paul Guidry, Travis Kirschke, Abdul
McCullough and Phillip Ward will await word of their professional
futures when the NFL Draft takes place Saturday and Sunday in New
York City. However, unlike last year when Jonathan Ogden, Karim
Abdul-Jabbar, Mike Flanagan and Donnie Edwards were all taken
within the top 100 picks, it seems unlikely that any of this crop
of Bruins will be selected so high. Most football analysts agree
that aside from McCullough, who might be a mid-round selection, the
other three UCLA seniors will likely be drafted in the later rounds
or may even sign as free agents after the draft. McCullough –
Unfortunately, McCullough’s decision to play out the last year of
his football eligibility has hurt his prospects in this Saturday’s
draft. Perhaps due to a cast McCullough was forced to wear for much
of last season, football analyst Mel Kiper Jr., who once rated
McCullough as the fifth-best safety in college football, now rates
him number 40. Although McCullough scores high marks in the
intimidation and enthusiasm categories, he lacks foot quickness and
cover skills. And because McCullough is considered a "tweener" – he
is a decent defensive back and linebacker, but not spectacular at
either – McCullough’s future in the NFL might be as a special team
player. Kirschke – According to Pro Football Weekly, Kirschke’s
best traits are that he "hustles and chases" and that he is an
"all-out competitor with a motor that never stops running." No
doubt, these are characteristics that all professional football
teams look for. Unfortunately, Kirschke, a defensive lineman, lacks
the size and quickness needed to make a huge impact on a
professional football team. But UCLA football head coach Bob Toledo
feels that Kirschke can be a solid backup in the NFL because
"Kirschke has the work ethic and the character necessary to survive
at the next level." Guidry – Last year, Guidry, a defensive back,
was devastated by injuries and was forced to sit out most of the
season. Although limited playing during his senior year may have
damaged his stock for the upcoming NFL draft, some teams have
contacted Guidry, most recently the Arizona Cardinals. Guidry’s
future in the NFL will probably be as a punt returner. In fact,
last year Guidry managed to stay healthy enough to break Darryl
Henley’s UCLA career mark for punt return yardage, with 756 yards.
Ward – At 6 feet 2 inches, 235 pounds, linebacker Phillip Ward
possesses the large size needed to be successful in the NFL. In
particular, NFL scouts seem to be impressed with Ward’s
pass-rushing skills. Consequently, numerous NFL teams have
contacted Ward, including the Dallas Cowboys, the Kansas City
Chiefs and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. "I really don’t care who
drafts me. I just want the chance to show my skills and keep
playing football," Ward said. He’ll find out if he gets the
opportunity Sunday.