Laiatu Latu's 2023 season rocketed him up draft boards

Laiatu Latu came to UCLA in 2022 as a transfer from Washington. He wasn’t any ordinary transfer. Latu had missed two seasons due to a neck injury. Leading to him medically retiring and having to put the game of football down. Determined to not take no for an answer, Latu went on a month's long search to find medical clearance. That came from Dr. Robert Watkins in California, leading to Latu hitting the transfer portal and onto UCLA.

As the off-season progressed for him. He was able to get stronger and stronger, thus leading to him being cleared for full contact. He hit the ground running and surprised a lot of people with his play. Being off football for two years is not an easy thing to do. Latu made it seem like he never had an injury in the first place. Finishing the 2022 season with 10.5 sacks in 13 games and being selected as a comeback player of the year.

2023 was the year that would skyrocket him up the draft. Latu was looking to build on a strong 2022 season, and he did that and more. He had 13 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss constantly pressuring the backfield, even adding two interceptions. Leading the Bruins to a top 15 defense in the country and landing All-American honors. Taking him from mid round prospect to first round draft pick in a season. The Indianapolis Colts selected him with the 15th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Latu has continued his ways in the NFL having a nose for the football. He could be very well on his way to being an All Pro this year as well. Having six sacks and three interceptions on the year to go along with 15 QB hits. He consistently finds his way into the backfield and makes plays. Just look at him intercepting Patrick Mahomes here yesterday. We are glad UCLA gave him a second chance at football.