NFL Mock Draft: Los Angeles Rams Trade Down, Select UCLA Star Laiatu Latu

The Los Angeles Rams address one of their biggest needs and add some extra capital in NFL.com's latest mock draft.

Sep 16, 2023; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Laiatu Latu (15) celebrates / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

With the NFL Draft now less than a month away, more and more mock drafts are coming out every single day.

In those mock drafts, the Los Angeles Rams, who hold the No. 19 pick, are one of the more interesting teams to watch. The Rams have a solid overall roster after a surprise playoff appearance last season but also have significant needs to address. They're also in prime position to make a trade if they so wish.

In the latest mock draft by NFL.com's Eric Edholm, the Rams decide to do just that and trade down five spots with the Dallas Cowboys. After doing so, they decide to address an area of need up front by selecting UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu.

Sep 16, 2023; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Laiatu Latu (15) celebrates / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

"In lieu of trying to replace Aaron Donald, which isn't possible, the Rams might look to address the pass-rush unit in other ways," Edholm writes. "Latu's injury history is worrisome for a Round 1 pick, but his effort and technical savvy could make him a great value if he stays on the field."

Since transferring from Washington in 2022, Latu has emerged as one of the top edge rushers in the country. The Sacramento native has racked up 23.5 sacks in his two seasons with the Bruins, earning a unanimous All-American selection among numerous other awards.

After what Latu has been through, his resurgence at UCLA has been a remarkable story. He suffered a major neck injury in 2020, to the point where it was considered dangerous for him to continue playing. He was eventually cleared to play again after transferring to UCLA, and he made the most of his second chance.

The likely first-round pick now has a chance to take his talents to the NFL level, and if he can stay in Los Angeles, it would surely be a huge moment for him.