Colts make Latu 1st defensive player drafted at No. 15

The Indianapolis Colts selected UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, No. 15 overall.

Latu is the first defensive player drafted in 2024 after a record six quarterbacks were called in the top 12. He's also the first defensive player selected by the Colts in Round 1 since edge rusher Kwity Paye in 2021.

One of the top edge rushers prospects in this year's draft, Latu topped double-digit sacks in each of the last two seasons. He set a career-high 13.5 sacks in 2023 to go along with 21.5 tackles for loss. Latu also amassed two interceptions.

Four Colts players - including Paye - recorded at least eight sacks in 2023. Samson Ebukam led the team with 9.5

Pre-draft profile

The former Bruin is already a next-level technician as a pass-rusher. Latu brings a whole bag of moves, instinctive counters, and effective angles that should have him racking up impressive production. His athletic profile isn't the most imposing in the draft class, but his motor is very apparent around the line of scrimmage. Latu is constantly working to defeat blocks and get to the ball. He's also a capable run defender, getting and maintaining extension against opponents before shedding, but he could stand to improve his anchor against power runs. While Latu missed two collegiate seasons due to a neck injury, he'll be a consistent threat if he stays healthy in the NFL.

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