LOS ANGELES - Paul Edwards did not try to play games or hide his excitement.

When UCLA offered back in November, it was a huge deal to the three-star defensive back from Bellflower (Calif.) St. John Bosco and the Bruins could be an early frontrunner.

“It was really important,” Edwards said at the recent Premium Showcase. “I’ve been getting recruited by them for a while before they offered me so that was a big one. That was one I was waiting on.

“I was really excited because that’s my hometown school. I grew up going to UCLA and everything. It was just really big for me.”

Edwards was offered by the former UCLA staff and has not talked much with coach Chip Kelly and his crew but the three-star defensive back expects things will pick up soon - and he’s planning to visit Westwood plenty this offseason.

“So far, I haven’t really been communicating with the new staff,” Edwards said.

“I haven’t had a chance to but this offseason I’ll definitely be down there, get to talk to them and get to know them.”

And playing for Kelly? What would that be like?

“Dream come true,” Edwards said.

The Bosco standout has been offered by UCLA and Utah so far. Cal and Washington State have been showing new interest.

There’s no doubt Edwards has a ton of interest in UCLA. Asked if the Bruins could be tough to beat, the three-star did not hide his feelings.

“I’d say yes,” Edwards said.