Defensive Lineman Kylie Fitts Picks Rival UCLA

The Trojans were unable to keep defensive end Kylie Fitts from getting away. The four-star lineman became the first official hit in what is expected to be a rough National Signing Day when he announced in a press conference Tuesday evening that he will be heading across town to don the baby blue in Westwood after choosing USC's rival, UCLA.

Known for his relentless attack and ability to get in the backfield, the 6-foot-4, 260-pound Fitts had expected to be an early enrollee in January. Due to USC's scholarship reductions (and possibly a player not graduating in December, as had been expected), the Trojans had to tell Fitts he wouldn't be able to enroll until the summer.

The former Redlands East Valley defensive end had called USC his "dream school," but he re-opened his recruitment taking visits to UCLA and Notre Dame amongst others. He made an official visit to USC, but Lane Kiffin and Ed Orgeron no longer had the magic touch.

In the press conference held at his high school Tuesday night, Fitts said he believed he was signing with the "greatest coaching staff in the nation and they are on the rise."

Fitts' most favorable ranking comes from ESPN, who has him listed as a top 10 recruit at both his position and in the state of California. He is ESPN's No. 85 overall prospect. Scout and Rivals both list him in the 120s overall and as a top 15 defensive lineman.

Here's Fitts in action:

For more information on who is and who isn't choosing USC, follow our National Signing Day coverage.