Laiatu Latu Fantasy Stats

The Athletic's James Boyd writes that Indianapolis Colts second-year defensive end Laiatu Latu is primed to take a step forward this year after starting defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo left in free agency to join the Chicago Bears. The Colts took Latu 15th overall last year, and he finished his first year in the NFL with 32 tackles (16 solo), four sacks, five tackles for loss, 12 QB hits, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery in 17 games (just one start). In addition to having a bigger role naturally in his second season, the 24-year-old pass-rusher should benefit from the addition of new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who is known for varying schemes that are designed to bring a lot more pressure than former D coordinator Gus Bradley did. While an every-down role might not immediately put Latu on the IDP fantasy radar, he's certainly one to watch this year.

Indianapolis Colts defensive end Laiatu Latu (hip) is officially active for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears. He had been listed as questionable after logging a limited practice on Friday. It seemed like Latu was a true game-time decision, but in the end, the rookie is suiting up. He'll be tasked with wreaking havoc for fellow first-round pick Caleb Williams. Through limited snaps in two weeks so far, Latu has one tackle and one fumble recovery.

With the No. 15 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Colts selected UCLA defensive end Laiatu Latu. There was talk he would go earlier in the night. However, concerns surrounding his neck may have caused him to slide to the middle of the first round. But the Colts took a chance and could benefit by taking a player who totaled 34 sacks in two seasons with the Bruins. At 6'5'', 265 lbs., he may make an impact for IDP managers right out of the gate.

UCLA edge usher Laiatu Latu is one of the top defensive prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft, and he could even be in contention to be the first defender selected. However, NFL insider Peter Schrager said he could fall in the draft due to medical concerns. "Teams are split on the medical," Schrager said. Latu entered college football in 2019 with Washington, but he missed the entire 2020 and 2021 seasons with injuries, and he even medically retired before coming back and transferring to UCLA in 2022. In two seasons with the Bruins, he racked up 34 tackles for loss and 23.5 sacks. He has all the talent and makings of an early first-round pick, but several teams will likely be worried about his ability to hold up at the next level.

The Los Angeles Rams have the impossible task of trying to replace the retired Aaron Donald this year, but it would be a big win if they were able to land UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu with the 19th overall pick in the first round of this year's NFL draft. The 6-foot-5, 259-pound former rugby standout was the nation's top lineman in 2023 after he led the FBS with 21.5 tackles for loss while also recording 13 sacks, 49 tackles, two interceptions and two forced fumbles. The 23-year-old emerged as a dominant player for the Bruins after a serious neck injury he suffered at Washington. He tested well at the scouting combine and has received rave reviews from coaches. "His arsenal of pass rush is legit. I started writing down the different ways he wins and I was getting up near eight, nine or 10. That's a lot!" one coach said.