LOS ANGELES — Coach Rick Neuheisel, hoping to return UCLA football to national prominence, believes the Bruins' new class of recruits will shore up the team's weaknesses.

Neuheisel, who took the UCLA job in December, 2007, said he was thrilled about the group of players who signed letters of intent to play for the Bruins.

The incoming class, ranked in a tie for fourth by one recruiting service and listed at No. 16 by another, includes 22 high school seniors and two junior college transfers.

Among the group of incoming prep stars is Morrell Presley of nearby Carson. One of the most highly regarded tight ends in the country, he enrolled at UCLA last month after graduating early from high school.

"I think we addressed many of our needs, especially on the offensive line and speed at the wide receiver and secondary positions," Neuheisel said Wednesday at the wrapup of signing day. "We also continued to add depth to most areas of the team."

The Bruins had an inexperienced, injury-riddled offensive line and an anemic running game, were forced to use third-string quarterback Kevin Craft, and struggled to a 4-8 record last season, Neuheisel's first as head coach of his alma mater.

Considered among the top prospects that Neuheisel lured to Westwood this year, in addition to Presley, are wide receiver Randall Carroll, offensive lineman Xavier Su'a-Filo and quarterback Richard Brehaut.

"Our staff worked extremely hard to identify, recruit and sign a stellar class," Neuheisel said. "I believe these young men, who are quality individuals on and off the field, will help us continue the task of returning UCLA to the elite in college football."