One of the expectations of the Pac-12 and Big Ten conferences punting on the season had to be the transfer portal. How many players would enter the transfer portal in an effort to play in the fall? UCLA offensive tackle Jake Burton announced on Tuesday that he would indeed enter the portal for the opportunity to play in the fall. He made his announcement on Twitter.
I wish to thank God and my family for all of the love, guidance and support they have given me during my time at UCLA. I also wish to thank Coach Mora, Coach Fraley, Coach McClure and Coach Fisch for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play for this amazing school. Coach Kelly, Coach Frye, Coach Wintrich, Coach Heiberger and Mr. Rick Aversano have helped me develop as a football player and I wish to thank them for their dedication and support. I was looking forward to finishing my college career with my Bruin teammates. Due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control, that is not possible this year. After much thought, I have decided to enter the portal in hopes of gaining the opportunity to play football this Fall.
Jake Burton started at right tackle for the Bruins the last two seasons with 23 starts and appeared in all 24 possible games. Burton started out his career as a defensive lineman before moving over to offensive line prior to his redshirt freshman season in 2017. Now a redshirt senior, Burton is looking to take part in the upcoming season.
Given the situation at right tackle, it would make sense for the Longhorns to kick the tires on Burton. He could likely start immediately once he gets acclimated to what the Longhorns do on offense. Last year’s right tackle Derek Kerstetter is being kicked inside to play center leaving the right tackle position open for the taking. While many felt that the starting right tackle job could belong to Denzel Okafor, Burton has the experience.
Burton received a 79.3 offensive grade last season for the Bruins. Samuel Cosmi was graded at 83.9. Kerstetter received a 71 offensive grade. The former three-star prospect will be looking for a home this fall and the Longhorns just might have the opportunity that the is looking for.