UCLA Football: Laiatu Latu Stays Out West in Latest NFL Mock Draft

Matt Levine | Apr 3, 2024

The UCLA Bruins had one of the better defensive seasons in the country last season, led by star defensive edge rusher Laiatu Latu. Latu dominated while with the Bruins, putting up 49 tackles, 21.5 of them for loss and 13 sacks through 12 games played.

He established himself as one of the better pass rushers across the nation, earning him a larger spotlight. Latu is now projected to be selected within the first round of the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, a feat that will cement all of the hard work that he has put in so far in his career.

Latu has been projected to be taken anywhere between the middle part of the first round toward the end of the round. He has a spectacular jump off the line of scrimmage, giving him an edge over the lineman to get into the backfield.

In a new mock draft by CBS Sports, Latu can stay on the West Coast, being selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the No. 27 pick.

"Rick Spielman -- The Cardinals scoop up the falling Laiatu Latu, who's one of the top edge rushers in this class (as long as he can stay healthy)."

If Latu is taken by the Cardinals, it would be an incredible addition to their defensive front. Arizona has been trying to build up their line for years and Latu could be one of the big pieces to help them make it happen.

Whichever team drafts Latu will be getting a player with a major chip on their back and a great attitude to prove it. He was special in college and now will be looking to continue his domination at the next level.