Indianapolis Colts edge rusher Laiatu Latu could be in line for a big season.
The former first-round pick showed plenty of flashes during his rookie campaign in 2024 and with a thinner depth chart, Latu should have the opportunity to take a big step.
When looking at potential breakout candidates for the 2025 season, Pro Football Focus’ Jonathon Macri believes Latu is the name to watch for the Colts.
“Latu’s rookie season flew under the radar a bit when compared to the Defensive Rookie of the Year, and fellow first-rounder, Jared Verse. However, Latu wasn’t given the full-time workload necessary to really make an impact in the sack column or be as disruptive as Verse,” Macri wrote. “Latu’s 54% snap share as a rookie wasn’t ideal, though with the team’s 2024 leader in pass-rush snaps, Dayo Odeyingbo, off to Chicago, there’s a much larger opportunity for Latu to deliver on his potential after ranking 30th in pass-rush grade (72.1) as a rookie in 2024.”
The departure of Odeyingbo should give Latu the chance to earn a starting role in Lou Anarumo’s defense. The Colts also added JT Tuimoloau in the second round of the 2025 NFL draft, but he’s expected to work more on the strong side of the formation.
According to Next Gen Stats, Latu recorded 42 quarterback pressures and a 12% pressure rate during the 2024 season.
The Colts made some big additions to the defensive side of the ball this offseason, especially in the secondary, but the entire unit could get a boost if Latu comes through with a breakout campaign.
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