Drafted 192nd overall, UCLA linebacker Jordan Zumwalt is now a Pittsburgh Steeler.
Zumwalt’s football identity features versatility and a penchant for splash plays. He started all 13 games in 2013, playing inside and outside, for the Bruins, forcing three fumbles and notching two interceptions while serving as one of UCLA’s leaders in reel-worthy tackles.
Perhaps Zumwalt’s most timely play occurred in a 5-point Bruins win over the Arizona Wildcats. Fellow NFL draftee and 2013 Pac-12 rushing champion Ka’Deem Carey became well-acquainted with Zumwalt on the field in November when the UCLA linebacker upended the Arizona running back near the goal line. UCLA safety Randall Goforth helped with additional hit, and Carey lost the ball in what became a touchback.
UCLA coach Jim Mora considered Zumwalt to be his team’s resident “crazy” man, a description justified by the linebacker’s willingness to play to, and many times through, the whistle. In particular, hits against Oregon’s Marcus Mariota and Virginia Tech’s Logan Thomas – the latter taken out of the Sun Bowl after getting clocked by a Zumwalt running with a full head of steam – left some wondering how far the linebacker could push referees with his aggression.
Compiled by Emilio Ronquillo, Bruin Sports senior staff.