Laiatu Latu
Position: Edge – Projected: 1st Round
History & Measurables
Born: Dec. 31st, 2000 – Sacramento, CA
High School: Jesuit HS (Washington)
College: UCLA
Height: 6’4″ Weight: 259 lbs
Traits & Characteristics
The Good
- Length
- Awareness as a pass rusher
- Superb hand placement
- Vast arsenal of speed rush techniques
The Bad
- Pad level
- Pursuit
- Run stopping
- Versatility concerns at NFL level
Advanced Analytics Notes
2023 Pass Rush Stats: Min 100 Pass Rush Snaps
- PFF Pass Rush Grade: 94.3 (1st Among Edge Defenders)
- Pash Rush Win Rate: 26.2% (T-6 Among Edge Defenders)
- QB Hits: 11 (T-11 Among Edge Defenders)
- Sacks: 15 (3rd Among Edge Defenders)
- Hurries: 36 (T-11 Among Edge Defenders)
2023 Run Defense Stats: Min 100 Run Defense Snaps
- PFF Run Defense Grade: 82.1 (16th Among Edge Defenders)
- Run Stops: 14 (T-138th Among Edge Defenders)
Film Notes and Highlights
Laiatu Latu is a finesse Edge with elite length. He utilize OL balance points to give him leverage on attacks, with his acceleration and length giving fits to offensive linemen. He has a vast arsenal of speed rush techniques and active hands. His placement is superb and helps him manipulate the body of the OL to gain an advantage. Latu most effective in a 2-point stance, but does have some trouble playing at a good pad level; while his length bails him out in this regard it’s something to watch for at the next level. He struggles in the run game and his pursuit after 5 yards is not great. I have concerns for him having any other responsibility than rushing the passer. Due to his neck concerns, I believe Latu is an early Day 2 prospect who likely would be ranked higher if not for medical concerns. – Thomas Christopher
(Games Watched: vs USC 2022, vs Arizona 2022, vs Utah 2023, vs Oregon State 2023, vs Arizona 2023, Live at Senior Bowl 2024)
Player Comparison
Jaelan Phillips