Packers select UCLA’s Johnathan Franklin in fourth round of draft

UC Green Bay?

UCLA running back Johnathan Franklin was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the fourth round of the NFL draft Saturday. He was the 125th player selected.

Franklin will join UCLA teammate Datone Jones at Lambeau Field. Jones, a defensive end, was the Packers’ first-round pick.

Franklin set UCLA’s single-season rushing record with 1,700 yards in 2012. He also set the school career rushing record with 4,403 yards.

The buzz before the draft was that Franklin was on the rise and could go as high as the second round. That proved to be unfounded.

Still, Franklin’s speed, receiving ability and skill as a blocker in pass protection make him an ideal third-down back. He had 32 receptions for 319 yards last season.

Franklin is the first UCLA running back to be drafted since Maurice Jones-Drew was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round in 2006.

ALSO:

Matt Barkley goes to Eagles in fourth round of NFL draft

USC receiver Robert Woods selected by Bills in second round

Trojans safety T.J. McDonald chosen by the Rams in third round