When the Indianapolis Colts were on the clock with the 15th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, they made a bold and intriguing decision. With a number of offensive weapons still available, the team opted to become the first franchise to select a defensive player in the draft — landing standout UCLA Bruins pass rusher, Laiatu Latu. Known in college as a relentless game wrecker off the edge, Latu arrived in Indianapolis with high expectations and plenty of excitement surrounding his potential impact on the team’s defense.
From the moment he was drafted, the spotlight was firmly fixed on Latu. Colts fans and analysts alike believed he could be the spark the defensive front desperately needed, bringing his explosive athleticism and natural pass-rushing instincts to a unit eager for playmakers. The hope was that Latu would hit the ground running and make an immediate difference in disrupting opposing quarterbacks and strengthening the defensive line.
However, while Latu’s rookie campaign wasn’t a disappointment by any means, it also didn’t quite meet the lofty hopes placed upon him. He showed flashes of the disruptive force he had been at UCLA — with occasional big plays and moments of brilliance — but consistency proved elusive. Like many rookies making the difficult transition from college to the NFL, Latu faced his share of growing pains. Adjusting to the speed, strength, and technique of professional offensive linemen presented challenges that tempered some of the initial hype.
That said, it’s important to recognize that even an uneven rookie season can serve as a valuable learning experience for a young player. Latu’s potential remains undeniable, and with a full offseason of development ahead, he’s poised to build on the lessons from his first year. In an NFL redraft scenario, the Colts still securing a talent like Latu — with Rookie of the Year upside — would be a move they’d likely make again without hesitation. His ceiling remains high, and the future in Indianapolis looks bright with him in the fold.