NEVADA
Will compete for a starting job in the linebacking corps and could also see time on special teams.

2008: Played in 12 games with one start, which came during his homecoming trip to Hawaii … Recorded 14 tackles during the season … Notched his first career interception and touchdown with a pick six against Utah State … Had a career-high five tackles against San Jose State.

2007: Battled injuries throughout the season. 2006: Redshirted his first season at Nevada.

HIGH SCHOOL
A graduate of St. Louis High School in Honolulu, Hawai'i … Was named ILH Defensive Player of the Year … Earned second-team all-state honors at inside linebacker from the Honolulu Star-Bulletin … Led the league with 69 tackles … Also had four sacks … Won the Hawai'i state wrestling title at 215 pounds.

PERSONAL
Born July 2, 1987 … Son of Maggie and Mosula Purcell … Has five younger brothers … Majoring in health ecology … Cousin Mel Purcell played on the defensive line at Hawai`i.