The Indianapolis Colts made a significant investment by selecting Laiatu Latu with the 15th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, hoping to bolster their defensive line. As a rookie from UCLA, Latu has experienced a mix of successes and challenges in his early career, showcasing both potential and areas in need of improvement. Pro Football Focus (PFF) has highlighted that there is considerable room for growth in Latu’s game, particularly in run defense.
In the recent matchup against the Miami Dolphins, Latu recorded his second career sack but also earned the lowest overall grade of his season from PFF. According to Dalton Wasserman from PFF, Latu struggled significantly in run defense during this game, failing to maintain his position and missing a tackle, which led to five negative grades in that category. Wasserman expressed hope that these issues wouldn’t become a recurring pattern, given that Latu has previously shown he can perform well in run defense.
Latu’s performance metrics through his first seven games are noteworthy:
– **Overall Grade:** 72.5
– **Pass Rush Grade:** 69.7
– **Run Defense Grade:** 67.6
While these numbers are respectable for a rookie edge rusher, they reflect a player who is still adjusting to the rigors of the NFL. The Colts originally envisioned Latu in favorable pass-rushing situations to ease him into the league. However, injuries to key players, including Samson Ebukam and Tyquan Lewis, have thrust Latu into a more prominent role, necessitating a heavier workload than anticipated.
Wasserman’s critique of Latu’s run defense is particularly pertinent, as he has logged subpar run defense grades in four out of seven games. These include performances against the Dolphins (48.8), Houston Texans (57.8), Green Bay Packers (58.3), and Tennessee Titans (59.2). While Latu has displayed moments of effective run defense, he must enhance his efficiency to aid a Colts defense that has struggled in that area.
Latu’s rapid induction into the starting lineup has been accelerated by injuries along the Colts’ defensive front, providing him with invaluable, albeit challenging, experience. Fortunately for the Colts, defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is nearing a return, which could significantly bolster the team as they approach a tough stretch in their schedule. Beginning with a critical road game against the Texans in Week 8, it will be essential for Latu to address his run defense issues, especially against a formidable opponent like Joe Mixon.
In summary, Laiatu Latu’s first season in the NFL has been a mix of challenges and learning opportunities. While he has shown glimpses of his potential as a pass rusher, his run defense needs improvement to solidify his role on the Colts’ defensive line. With the impending return of Buckner and a demanding schedule ahead, it will be crucial for Latu to adapt quickly and elevate his play to meet the expectations that come with being a first-round draft pick. The Colts’ coaching staff will be keenly observing his development as the season progresses, hoping that he can rise to the occasion in the weeks to come.
