UCLA quarterback Brett Hundley selected by Packers in fifth round

UCLA quarterback Brett Hundley waited two days before knowing his fate.

Hundley, who had hoped to go in the first two rounds of the NFL draft, finally heard his name called when the Green Bay Packers drafted him in the fifth round Saturday. He was the sixth quarterback and the 147th player taken in the draft.

After declaring for the draft in January, forgoing his last year of eligibility, Hundley waded through speculation on where he would be drafted. His workouts at the NFL scouting combine and at UCLA’s pro day displayed his potential, but also revealed holes, in the eyes of scouts.

He is far from a polished quarterback, and scouts feel he needs to refine his pocket mechanics, but his raw talent and confidence made him desirable.

Hundley pondered declaring for the NFL draft a year ago, but chose to remain in school, where he hoped to lead the Bruins to the Pac-12 title and improve his draft possibilities.

He finished his three seasons as UCLA’s starter as the school’s all-time leader in total offense with 11,713 yards and touchdown passes with 75. He passed for 9,966 yards, second in school history behind Cade McNown’s 10,708, and ran for 1,747 yards, second in school history among quarterbacks to John Sciarra’s 1,813.

In three seasons with Hundley under center, the Bruins had a 29-11 record. He led UCLA to the Pac-12 South Division title in 2012 and victories in the Sun Bowl and Alamo Bowl.

But NFL scouts saw a lot of work ahead for Hundley.

The analysis on NFL.com following the combine said Hundley had “a well-built frame, sturdy enough to handle the rigors of the position,” and that he was “poised enough in the pocket.” It also noted Hundley’s mobility as a plus.

The same report also said that Hundley “hasn’t shown the ability to win from the pocket” and that he “short-arms too many throws.” His ability to complete passes outside the pocket was also called into question.

The report projected Hundley as a fourth- or fifth-round pick.