A junior college linebacker committed to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff on Friday, an addition that could address one of UAPB’s biggest defensive needs.
Rising junior Kaylon Bradley spent the past two seasons at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, Calif. The Monroe, N.J., native was the Mounties’ second-leading tackler last year with 54. He had 6.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks while recovering one fumble for a team that finished the season 10-1.
Bradley’s best performance came Sept. 23 in a 42-21 win at Citrus College. He finished with nine tackles, three tackles for loss and two sacks. Mt. SAC’s win ended Citrus’ 17-game winning streak.
As a middle linebacker, Bradley is a strong candidate to take the starting spot previously filled by Rico Dozier, last year’s SWAC leader in tackles. Dozier transferred to Alabama State in the offseason.
Bradley is the second junior college linebacker to commit to UAPB since the end of spring practice. Sussex County (N.J.) transfer Benjie Guar previously committed, but he plays more of an edge rusher role.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
With UAPB getting linebacker Khalil Arnold back after he led the Golden Lions in sacks last season, Guar could share time with Arnold or move to defensive end.
UAPB also brought in Lyon College transfer Aiden McHan, a White Hall native, in the offseason. UAPB lists him as a linebacker, though Lyon College listed him as a safety. He saw limited playing time last season as a freshman. UAPB also signed four high school linebackers and has three reserve linebackers returning, but Bradley’s addition gives the Golden Lions a more veteran, proven option.
Bradley was the second new transfer commitment UAPB picked up this week. On Wednesday, Virginia University of Lynchburg defensive tackle Jaden Ledbetter signed with the Golden Lions. The rising sophomore is listed at 6-foot, 315 pounds and had five tackles last season as a freshman. VUL plays in the National Christian College Athletic Association.
Commitments from Ledbetter and Bradley bring UAPB’s post-spring transfer total to 15 and brings the projected fall roster to 90 players.