Akeem Ayers enters 2011 NFL Draft

As expected, UCLA junior outside linebacker Akeem Ayers will enter the 2011 NFL Draft.

"I will miss playing with my UCLA teammates next year but I feel that the decision to go to the NFL is what is best for my family," Ayers said in a release. "I will always be a Bruin."

In 12 starts in 2010, Ayers had 68 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, four sacks and two interceptions. He has had eight sacks over the last two seasons.

Most simply look at Ayers' size – 6-foot-4, 256 pounds – and automatically assume he's a perfect fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker. However, he hasn't quite developed as the pass rusher many expected.

That is partly to do with the UCLA defensive scheme. It often required Ayers to drop back in coverage. In the long run, that should make him a better all-around player. But a team looking for pass rush help may have to wait a year as Ayers comes along.