Despite concerns when it comes to medicals, Latu was one of the best pass rushers in all of college football in 2023. Latu finished his junior season with 13 sacks, two forced fumbles, and two interceptions.
Player Profile: Laiatu Latu | EDGE | UCLA
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 265
40-Yard Dash: 4.70
Class: Senior
Awards:
2023 Ted Hendricks Award
2023 Lombardi Award
2023 All-American
2023 Pac-12 POY
2023 Morris Trophy
2023 First-Team All-Pac-12
2022 First-Team All-Pac-12
Favorite Plays:
1. UCLA vs Coastal Carolina 2023
2. UCLA vs USC 2023
3. UCLA vs Cal 2023
Strengths:
Great size for an NFL edge rusher.
Impressive ability to turn his speed into power, developed an inside spin move.
Extremely quick and fluid lateral movement.
Boasts an arsenal of pass-rush moves that he uses effectively.
His motor is always running, doesn’t take plays off.
Latu has an insane burst off the line, gains the edge extremely quick.
Extremely flexible.
Weaknesses:
Average arm length could limit his ability to control opposing offensive linemen.
Medical history is a massive risk, potential to hinder his draft stock as we near the draft.
Has a hard time disengaging from blockers in the run game.
Tendency to leave his assignment just so he can make a play.
Summary:
Latu saw a quick rise in his draft stock throughout the 2023 season after being one of the most dominant pass rushers in the country. Latu’s level of play showed that he can be a disruptive force in the NFL and why he can be a potential top-10 pick next April.
Medicals have been an issue with Latu due to him having to medically retire previously.
NFL Player Comparison: Jacksonville Jaguars EDGE Josh Allen.
Draft Grade: Early first-round.
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