CollinsUkwu

Sat out contact in the spring while he recovered from injury … Should be ready to go in August … Two-year regular at defensive end … His previous three seasons have been a steady upward trajectory, giving hope that his senior season will be his best … Displays excellent speed and has the potential to be an outstanding pass rusher … Has played 35 games, starting 24 … Has finished his bachelor’s degree in community communications and leadership developmen and is adding a second major this fall.

2011 (Junior): Played in nine games, missing three in midseason because of injury … Led UK’s defensive linemen in sacks (2.5) and tackles for loss (6.5) … Had a career-high seven tackles in the win over Central Michigan, including two TFL … Had a crucial fumble recovery and a sack in the win over Tennessee.

2010 (Sophomore): Started every game at defensive end with 26 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and one sack … Good game against Tennessee, posting three tackles and a quarterback hurry … Posted a career-high six tackles vs. Auburn and Florida … Got a sack in the win vs. WKU.

2009 (Redshirt Freshman): Played in all 13 games … Drew three starting assignments … Totaled 14 tackles, including 1.5 for loss … Had a season high of three tackles in three games … Had a quarterback sack vs. Florida.
2008 (Freshman): Redshirted … Was named a Scout Team Player of the Week on three occasions, twice on defense and once on special teams.

High School: Defensive end noted for his speed and quickness … Set a school career record with 43 tackles for loss at La Vergne (Tenn.) HS … Played only seven games his senior season because of injury, but totaled 86 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, seven quarterback sacks, three fumbles caused, and one fumble recovery … All-region as a junior and senior … Named to the all-area team as a senior by the Murfreesboro Daily News Journal … Honorable-mention all-state … Three-year starter who helped lead La Vergne to state playoff appearances his sophomore and junior seasons … Has run the 40-yard dash in 4.7 seconds … Coached by Will Hester … Member of school’s basketball team that won four consecutive district championships and two regional titles … Competed in the shot put and discus throw for the track and field team.

Personal: Born in Nashville, Tenn. … Name is pronounced “OOK-woo” … Son of Edwin and Susan Ukwu … Adding second major in sociology after finishing his first degree in community communications and leadership development.

Community Cats: Helped with the Big Blue U Move-In (2011).