LOS ANGELES — UCLA cornerback Alterraun Verner, who led the nation in passes defensed last season, will return to play his senior season for the Bruins.

Verner was credited with two interceptions and 18 passes defensed, an average of 1.67 per game — tops in the country. He was a second-team All-Pac 10 cornerback as chosen by the league's coaches.

Verner had said he was 50-50 before the holidays and had been leaning toward coming back for the last week. He met with his family last weekend and made his final decision Tuesday.

"A part of me felt that I was ready to try the next level," Verner said in a statement issued by the school Wednesday. "After talking with people to get some feedback, I realized that I would benefit from getting bigger and more physical.

"I also want to continue to help coach (Rick) Neuheisel build this program. I think we are going to have a great year. I also want to get my degree."