The UCLA Bruins’ standout defensive lineman, Laiatu Latu, has been a force to be reckoned with this season, raising the possibility of him being a top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, as projected by Bleacher Report. In this hypothetical scenario, Latu could potentially join the Denver Broncos, offering them a formidable pass rusher and a boost to their defensive line.
Key Takeaways:
- Laiatu Latu, UCLA’s star defensive lineman, is gaining attention as a potential top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
- Bleacher Report’s mock draft places Latu with the Denver Broncos at the ninth overall pick, which would be a significant addition to their defense.
- Despite overcoming a career-threatening neck injury, Latu’s talent and determination have him poised for success at the NFL level.
The UCLA Bruins have been turning heads this season, and at the center of their remarkable defensive performance is the powerhouse, Laiatu Latu. As the 2024 NFL Draft draws nearer, the anticipation surrounding Latu’s potential professional career is reaching a fever pitch. According to the latest Bleacher Report mock draft, there’s a strong likelihood that Latu could find himself among the top picks, particularly landing in the AFC West with the Denver Broncos selecting him at the ninth overall spot.
“Laiatu Latu has been nothing short of phenomenal for UCLA this season. His constant presence in opposing backfields has taken him from a possible first-round pick to arguably the best edge prospect for the 2024 NFL class.”
Per Bleacher Report NFL Scouting Department
If this scenario were to unfold, it would be a substantial gain for the Broncos. Standing at an imposing 6’5″ and weighing 265 pounds, Latu is the kind of player who can transform a defense. His ability to relentlessly pressure quarterbacks and disrupt opposing offenses would make him a valuable asset for Denver. Under the guidance of head coach Sean Payton, Latu’s charisma and performance could quickly endear him to Broncos fans.
“He is a well-rounded edge-defender with a toolbox full of pass-rush moves and counters. He has a complete skill set to join Nik Bonitto and Baron Browning, who definitely flash but don’t present the same overall traits. This newfound trio can help the Broncos regain what they’ve lost in recent years.”
Per Bleacher Report NFL Scouting Department
However, Latu’s journey to this point has not been without obstacles. A neck injury threatened to end his football career prematurely, with doctors delivering a grim prognosis. Despite these challenges, Latu’s determination led him to UCLA, where he continued to excel on the field. Now, as he stands on the precipice of an NFL career, the biggest hurdle remains his upcoming medical evaluation during the draft process.
“Basically, Latu needs to get past the medical evaluation portion of the NFL draft process since the Washington Huskies’ medical staff medically retired him because of a neck injury. He then transferred to UCLA. If doctors clear Latu during the NFL combine’s in-depth scrutiny, his path toward a top-10 pick will continue unabated.”
Per Bleacher Report NFL Scouting Department
Should Latu pass this crucial evaluation, his dream of playing in the NFL could become a reality. His undeniable talent and unwavering resilience make him a prime candidate for success at the professional level. As fans eagerly await the unfolding of his journey, it’s clear that Laiatu Latu has the potential to be a game-changer in the NFL.
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