UCLA Football: Laiatu Latu Labeled as 'Ideal' Pick For NFC North Squad

Matt Levine | Apr 12, 2024

The UCLA Bruins draft prospects all start with star defensive end Laiatu Latu and for good reason. He shined bright while with the Bruins, showcasing his skills for potential teams to see.

Latu posted 13 sacks last season over 12 games, showing his ability to get into the backfield at a high rate. He is seen as one of the better pass rushers in this draft class and is expected to be taken somewhere in the first-round. Latu has been projected to go anywhere from within the top-10 to the end of the round.

Draft Analyst Chad Reuter of NFL.com labeled Latu as an ideal selection for the Minnesota Vikings at pick No. 23. This has been around where many believe Latu will ultimately be taken, but Minnesota does make a lot of sense for a landing spot.

"Latu suffered a serious neck injury early in his college career but led the FBS with 21.5 tackles for loss (and tied for fourth with 13 sacks) last season, flashing the quickness and heavy hands to beat tackles outside. He would be a nice add late in the first for Brian Flores’ revamped edge rushing corps."

If Latu were to head to Minnesota, he would instantly help their pass rush. Minnesota lost star Danielle Hunter in free agency, so he could help replace the lost production from that. While Latu isn't Hunter, he has the skills nessecary to become a dominant force on defense.

The Vikings play in a very physical division with explosive offenses, so adding someone like Latu would be wise. They need to keep pace with others in the NFC and Latu's ability to cause havoc in the backfield could help. The former Bruins star is determined to show that he can succeed at the NFL level and whichever team drafts him will be getting someone with a chip on their shoulder.