Former LSU Star John Emery Visits UCLA, Eyes Final Season Impact
Former five-star running back John Emery is actively seeking a new program to close out his college football career after entering the NCAA Transfer Portal last month as a graduate student. Emery, who was a highly touted Top-15 prospect in the 2019 recruiting cycle, is looking to make a significant impact in his final season of eligibility.
Emery’s college journey has been a mix of promise and challenges. At LSU, he totaled 1,062 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns across 37 appearances, starting in five games. His most productive seasons came in 2020 and 2022, during which he logged 75 and 76 carries, respectively. Despite his potential, Emery’s time on the field was limited by academic ineligibility, causing him to miss the entire 2021 season and portions of the 2023 season. Additionally, he is currently recovering from a torn ACL, an injury he sustained last fall.
Now, Emery is on the lookout for a program where he can fully utilize his talents and finish his college career on a high note. He has taken his first official visit since entering the transfer portal, traveling to California to meet with the UCLA Bruins. This visit indicates his interest in joining a team where he can immediately contribute once he is back to full health.
UCLA presents a promising opportunity for Emery, who aims to be a key player in the Bruins’ offensive lineup. His visit to UCLA marks the beginning of his search for a new home, where he hopes to demonstrate his skills and resilience after overcoming both academic and physical setbacks.
Emery’s journey reflects the ups and downs many athletes face, but his determination to find a new path and make an impact remains strong. As he continues to explore his options, programs like UCLA will evaluate the potential he brings as a seasoned and motivated player looking to leave a lasting legacy in his final collegiate season.