Here is where certain NFL Draft experts had him rank as well as the grade give to the Colts for selecting him at No. 15.
Here is some of the reactions to the Colts picking him via social media.
Laiatu Latu has size, talent and a motor. Defensive coaches have told me they love how active his hands are in getting and maintaining leverage in the run game. His pas rush? He has more moves than a military family. Militant with it. pic.twitter.com/n5JOTgRA1R
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) April 26, 2024
.@Colts @laiatu_latu is the best defensive player in this draft #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/uy8omNDJlW
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) April 26, 2024
First defensive player off the board! @laiatu_latu to Indy! pic.twitter.com/kFlZYZgRN1
— NFL GameDay (@NFLGameDay) April 26, 2024
The Indianapolis Colts selected Laiatu Latu in the 2024 NFL Draft for a few key reasons.
Top Talent: According to Colts GM Chris Ballard, they believed Latu was the best defensive player in the entire draft. Latu's college production at UCLA was impressive, with a combined 24 sacks in his final two seasons in Westood.
Pass-Rushing Prowess: The Colts were looking to bolster their defensive line with a player who could disrupt quarterbacks. Latu's athleticism (he ran a 4.62-second 40-yard dash at the combine) and pass-rushing moves made him a perfect fit for the Colt's defensive system.
Versatility: Latu isn't just a pass rusher who can get to the quarterback. He could also contribute against the run, adding further value to the Colt's defense, and can create turnovers.
Character: The Colts like many NFL teams, prioritize good character in their players, and Latu must have impressed them with his work ethic and personality as many people at UCLA already know he is a man of good character.
Overall, the Colts saw Latu as a chance to grab an impact player who could immediately improve their defense on multiple fronts.