Ranking 20th on defense, the Indianapolis Colts had to use their No. 15 pick to set things right. With all the top defensive players available, GM Chris Ballard knew who had the cut to make it to the Railroad City. So, it’s not surprising when his choice settled on one of the nation’s elite pass rushers. 

DE Laiatu Latu, a dynamic player from UCLA with a previous stint at Washington, has been a sensation over his two seasons with the Bruins, earning the title of unanimous All-American. The Colts’ decision to draft him as the first defensive player off the board has sparked a wave of excitement. With his dual-threat ability as a pass rusher and run defender, he clinched the Lombardi Award and the Ted Hendricks Award in his final collegiate season, setting high expectations for his performance in Indianapolis. 

Bill Belichick drops his approval of the Colts’ decision to draft Laiatu Latu

As the 2024 NFL Draft heats up, Bill Belichick, a respected figure in the football world, shares his insights on the Colts’ 15th pick. His endorsement of Laiatu Latu as an explosive player, strong and physical, and an excellent defensive end provides a reassuring nod to the Colts’ decision. Reflecting on a throwback clip from the UCLA and Colorado game, he commends Latu’s prowess in the run game and as a pass rusher, emphasizing his explosiveness off the edge.

With a terrific defense, UCLA delivered constant pressure to Shedeur Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes last season beating them 28-16. The Bruins crushed the Buffs with seven sacks and 10 tackles for loss, with Laiatu Latu sacking the Buffs QB twice in the game. Bill Belichick lauds Latu’s ability to deliver both on the inside and outside with impressive power and speed. It’s no wonder the Colts, who require a strong defense, chose this explosive player to grace the Lucas Oil Stadium.

Will Laiatu Latu’s college success follow him to Indy?

Laiatu Latu comes to Indianapolis with solid support and endorsement, confirmed by his former teammates. UCLA’ QB Ethan Garbers doesn’t hide his pride for the defense, saying, “Our defense is the best I’ve ever seen. And the best I’ve ever gone against in practice.” In 2022 and 2023, the 6’4″, 259-pounder recorded 10 ½ sacks and 12 ½ tackles for loss and 13 sacks and 21 ½ tackles for loss, respectively. 

In 2022, the versatile defensive beast recorded 64 pressures; in 2023, he finished with 62. With these records, Latu is reportedly ranked among Power 5 players with the 10 highest total pressures in a single season over the last three years. He also accounted for a record 26.2 percent pass rush win rate. It would be interesting to see what the Sacramento native will bring to the defensive table in Indianapolis.