The UCLA Bruins defense was one of the better units in college football last season, especially against the run. One of the main reasons for that was the play of star edge rusher Laitu Latu, who shined during his time with the Bruins.
Latu has played all year and is expected to be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft, making him the first Bruins player to be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft since 2018. Last season, he had 13 sacks in 12 games, giving him a taste of potential NFL teams. All he can do is by Sunday.
He is projected to be taken anywhere from the top 10 of the first round to the back of the round. However, a new mock draft by Charles Davis of NFL.com shows Latu remaining in the top 10 and heading to the Atlanta Falcons.
“The Falcons get the best all-around pass rusher in this draft, as Atlanta is currently intent on competing in the NFC South and Edge is at the top of the team's needs list.”
The Falcons desperately need help getting closer to opposing quarterbacks, and Latu could solve many of their problems. He has been able to fit in very well with new head coach Raheem Morris, who watched him closely during his time with the Los Angeles Rams.
Latu's ability to get off the line quickly will help the Falcons strengthen their defense and could give them even more reason to compete next season. This would be an ideal landing spot for the former Bruins star, and his top-10 finish would be a great story for the entire UCLA program.
UCLA: UCLA Basketball: Bruins land, possible replacement for Adem Bona in transfer portal
