Defections spur mixed results for the Bruins

UCLA appeared on the verge of a late recruiting victory Tuesday when David Schwerzel, a high school defensive lineman from Seattle, tweeted that he was "1000% committed" to becoming a Bruin, including a picture of himself in a blue and gold uniform.

- BY BEN BOLCH

UCLA IS signing Mater Dei cornerback CJ Lavender, shown making an interception.

By midday Wednesday, Schwerzel sent out another tweet, saying he remained undecided "due to unforeseen circumstances."

Regardless of whether the reversal was attributable to miscommunication with coaches or a change of heart, it illustrated the volatility of the early signing period in even the best of times.

And these clearly weren't the best of times for the Bruins.

Having done its best to salvage a rapidly dwindling re[UCLA, from B10] cruiting class after the September dismissal of coach DeShaun Foster, UCLA suffered several more defections Wednesday from prospects who had been previously committed to becoming Bruins.

Four-star edge rusher Carter Gooden signed with Tennessee. Three-star safety Toray Davis signed with Texas. Three-star offensive lineman Micah Smith signed with Illinois. Threestar offensive lineman Travis Robertson signed with Bowling Green.