UCLA Football: AFC East Team Speaking With Laiatu Latu at Bruins Pro-Day

Latu is expected to be a hot commodity in the draft this year.

The UCLA Bruins star edge rusher Laiatu Latu has been a heavily talked about player in the upcoming NFL Draft. After an incredible season with UCLA this past year, Latu is expected to be taken in the first round of the draft.

His unique skillset and ability to get to the quarterback give NFL teams major interest in landing him. He is expected to be a hot commodity within the draft and whoever takes him, will be getting a player with a major chip on his shoulder. 

At the Bruins Pro-Day, the New England Patriots were seen speaking to Latu. New England holds the third overall pick, which is likely too high for Latu to go. But they also own the No. 34 pick in the second round, so if Latu were to fall, they could grab him there. Or they could always trade up back into the first round to snag him. 

Patriots scout seen talking with UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu.

— James H. Williams covers UCLA football (@JHWreporter) March 15, 2024

Latu heading to the Patriots would be an interesting situation, as they could use someone like him on defense. With longtime head coach Bill Belichick gone, the Patriots are looking to start a new brand of culture in New England.

The former Bruins' edge rusher could help with that, giving them a true defensive weapon to deploy. New Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo is no stranger to defense, as he played in the NFL for years.

Latu has all the tools to be a successful NFL player, and teams will be eyeing him all draft. It'll be interesting to see where he eventually lands, and how he develops throughout his career.