'Most interesting man in college football' Carson Steele leaves pet alligator in Indiana

UCLA coach Chip Kelly would be happy to offer running back Carson Steele the title of "most interesting man in college football."

More importantly to him, Kelly is thrilled with how the former Center Grove and Ball State star is approaching his first season with the Bruins.

"He's been outstanding. His work ethic is off the charts," Kelly told reporters in Los Angeles, noting Steele's dedication to weightlifting workouts. "He does back flips. ... He's always trying to get better."

One thing Steele didn't bring with him to West Coast is Crocky-J, his pet alligator. Kelly said he doesn't own a reptile, so Steele gets the nod as "most interesting."

The full story of Crocky-J: Is Steele the most interesting man in college football?

"Glad he made the decision to leave him back in Indiana," the coach said. "If it was here, I think we'd all know."

Here's what Kelly expects from Steele on the field: "He's a downhill, physical runner. ... He's got really good vision in the hole."

Steele is in the mix to get significant work at UCLA. He rushed for 1,556 yards (5.4 per carry) and had 29 receptions for 166 yards, and 15 total touchdowns in 2022 for Ball State.

Steele won Mr. Football honors in 2020 while leading Center Grove to the first of its three consecutive Class 6A state championships. He had 1,659 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns as a senior, and 5,907 career yards with 82 TDs.

“Going from Indiana to L.A. is a little different. So being out here, it’s awesome,” Steele told reporters Aug. 13. “Loving the weather, especially, too. And being able to go to the beach is cool.” (The Santa Monica pier is an early favorite.)

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: UCLA football coach Chip Kelly discusses Carson Steele, alligator