UCLA punter Jeff Locke taken by Vikings in fifth round of draft

How good is UCLA punter Jeff Locke?

He was the first punter taken in the NFL draft and only the 22nd punter drafted in the last 10 years.

Locke was picked in the fifth round, the 115th selection overall this week, by the Minnesota Vikings. Only eight punters have been drafted higher since 2003.

Locke’s versatility adds to his appeal. He is effective at kickoffs and can handle field goals if needed.

He is also one of the most intelligent players to pass through the UCLA program. Locke was a semifinalist for the National Football Foundation’s national scholar athlete awards.

Locke averged 43.3 yards a punt last season, with 34 of his 77 punts downed inside the 20-yard line.

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