UCLA cornerback Anthony Jefferson might miss season with injury

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UCLA cornerback Anthony Jefferson might miss the season because of a back injury, according to a person in the program who is not authorized to talk.

Jefferson, a redshirt freshman, was expected to compete for a starting spot, but he has been unable to work out due to back pain caused by an injured disc. He will choose between rest and surgery to solve the problem.

The Bruins are thin at cornerback. Aaron Hester and Sheldon Price were the starters last season, but Andrew Abbott is the only other cornerback with game experience. Brandon Sermons sat out last season with a broken leg. The Tennessean reported last week that former Vanderbilt cornerback Jamie Graham is expected to enroll in graduate school at UCLA and be eligible immediately.

Jefferson played in three games last season before suffering a broken foot. He sat out spring practice while recovering from the injury.

The Bruins received better news about offensive lineman Jeff Baca, who is ahead of schedule in recovering from a broken ankle. Baca could be ready for the Bruins’ game against Texas on Sept. 17, but is more likely to return the following week against Oregon State.

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