UCLA suspends Ishmael Adams

Ishmael Adams, a playmaking defensive back and kick returner for UCLA’s football team, has been suspended indefinitely, Coach Jim Mora announced Tuesday.

Adams, a senior, was taken into custody by UCLA police at 3:36 a.m. Sunday for allegedly using force to rob a cellphone from an Uber driver, according to Tod Tamberg of UCLA’s office of media relations.

Adams was released on bail at 6:24 a.m. Tuesday morning.

The suspension is pending on whatever information the police investigation turns up, Mora said.

Adams is due in court on Sept. 22.

Adams is 5 feet 8 and 180 pounds, but he has started 26 consecutive games by playing bigger than his frame.

“He plays with that chip on his shoulder in practice, in games,� Mora said last season. “He’s a fighter, a scrapper.�

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Adams ability to create big plays was vital to the Bruins in 2014. Against Virginia in the season opener, Adams returned an interception for a touchdown. He also scored on a punt return only to have it nullified by a penalty in the 28-20 victory.

Adams had two touchdowns in a 62-27 victory over Arizona State, a 95-yard interception return and a 100-yard kickoff return.

“He has a knack for making plays,� Mora said last season. “When he gets the ball in his hands, there is no way he is going to go down easy.�

Adams is also well-known for jawing on the field, something that amused teammates and annoyed opponents.

“I don’t think a day goes by where Ish doesn’t try to start a fight in practice,� former UCLA quarterback Brett Hundley said last season. “He goes after receivers, even ours. That’s good for us.�

Adams’ streak of consecutive starts for the Bruins appeared in jeopardy even before his arrest. Marcus Rios has been working with the first-team defense at Adams’ cornerback spot. Adams was expected to be used frequently as a nickel back.

UCLA opens its season Saturday at the Rose Bowl against Virginia.

MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS:

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Running back Paul Perkins expects big things from UCLA

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