NIKE Camp changes sleeper to prospect

Defensive lineman/offensive lineman Otis Jones (6-2, 255, 4.9) from Lawndale (Calif.) Leuzinger participated at the NIKE Camp held in Los Angeles last Sunday (April 15th). The versatile Jones competed on the defensive side of the ball at the camp and according to many was among top five best defensive linemen at the camp.

"The defensive line coach at the camp was very impressed with Otis' competitive nature," Leuzinger assistant coach Ralph Oliver said. "He consistently challenged the best offensive linemen at camp. Guys like Matt Kahlil, Max Tuioti-Mariner and Tyron Smith and held his own.

"The camp coaches were also impressed with the length of his wingspan and his explosiveness off the ball," Oliver said. "Otis is just beginning to come into his own as a football player. His best days are still ahead of him."

Since the camp Jones has begun to attract interest from D-I colleges.

"Arizona, Washington State and Colorado have contacted us about Otis just this past week," Oliver said. "UCLA is also this picking up interest. He will be at UCLA's campus this Saturday to take in their practice with Bruin commit Uona Kavienga.

"Arizona likes Jones as a defensive tackle," Oliver said. "He passed the eye ball test from Mike Stoops and Mike Tuiasosopo when they came by the school this past week.

Colorado and Washington State likes Jones at both defensive end and defensive tackle. UCLA likes Jones for his skills on both sides of the ball.

"Coach DeWayne Walker wants Otis to meet UCLA defensive line coach Todd Howard this Saturday after practice," Oliver said. "Coach Eric Scott told me that Otis may be able to play quick guard for the Bruins."

As a junior, Jones played primarily offensive guard and earned all-league status for his performance.

From his defensive end position and on a part time duty, Jones accounted for 32 tackles, six sacks and had three forced fumbles.

In the weight room, he benches 365, squats 460, cleans 275 and recorded a 23 vertical jump.