After playing four seasons in the Pac-12 for Washington and UCLA, Laiatu Latu is ready to make an impact at the NFL level.
With the 15th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts have selected Laiatu Latu, a former UCLA standout considered to be one of the top defensive players in his class. Over his last two seasons in college, Latu registered 23.5 sacks, two interceptions, and five forced fumbles. The Consensus All-American was particularly productive in 2023, amassing 13.0 sacks to go along with two interceptions and two forced fumbles.
While Latu undoubtedly provides tremendous burst off the edge, he has become particularly useful in the running game, as 21.5 of his 49 tackles came for a loss in 2023. Furthermore, Latu was named the 2023 Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year and won the Ted Hendricks trophy, which is awarded annually to the nation’s top defensive end.
Being that Latu was selected in the first round and checks off nearly all the boxes you want in a defensive star, he should remain a fixture on the Colts’ defense for years to come. In terms of fantasy outlook, Latu deserves a strong look in fantasy leagues — particularly dynasty formats — in which managers are granted an IDP slot. The same traits that make Latu an enticing NFL prospect warrant strong consideration in your fantasy football draft.
