UCLA earns commitment from talented 2023 athlete from Nevada
UCLA earned its first high school pledge in nearly two months Wednesday night.
Donavyn Pellot, a 3-star athlete and one of the top-ranked players from the state of Nevada, announced on social media he has committed to the Bruins. He chose UCLA over interest from Arizona, Arizona State, BYU, Fresno State, and Washington State, among others.
Thank you to all the coaches that recruited me… I am now committed to UCLA!!💙💛💙💛#GoBruins @Coach_TSanchez @SilveradoHSFB @UCLAFootball pic.twitter.com/dobdmIs1SW
— Donavyn Pellot (@2EZDUECE) September 22, 2022
Out of Las Vegas (Nev.) Silverado, Pellot plays running back, receiver and defensive back at the high school level. Inside linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. led the charge on his recruitment for the Bruins, signaling they want to start out the 6-foot-2, 210-pound athlete at linebacker.
Pellot doesn’t yet have a rating in the 247 Composite, but expect that to change now that he’s in a Power Five class. He ranks as the 35th-best athlete in the class and the No. 5 prospect from the state of Nevada.
As a junior last fall, Pellot had 60 rushing attempts for 592 yards and 10 touchdowns, as well as 29 receptions for 632 yards and seven scores. On defense, he had 66 tackles, two tackles for loss, six pass breakups, three interceptions, and two fumble recoveries.
247Sports’ Blair Angulo had this to say on his game:
Long, high-upside frame with a strong lower half. Carries plenty of muscle through the legs. Talented two-way athlete with great offensive production. Higher ceiling on defensive side at linebacker or box safety. Flashes tremendous instincts to close on the football as plays develop. Shows very good anticipation and spatial awareness. Displays above average burst and footspeed. Good, sound tackler who wraps up well in solo situations. Impressive ball skills and dynamic while in possession. Patient defender who does well to maintain gap integrity. Could continue to improve in coverage and maintain fluidity in his lateral movements. Potential multi-year starter with chance to garner serious NFL Draft interest.
His verbal pledge gives UCLA its seventh known commitment for the 2023 class. You can view his highlight tape below, via Hudl: