The Indianapolis Colts have a history of addressing their most pressing needs at the top of the draft, but they took a different approach in 2023. Rather than targeting a position of immediate need, such as quarterback or wide receiver, they selected edge rusher Laiatu Latu with their first-round pick. Latu is a pass-rush technician with impressive stats from his time in college, leading the FBS in pass-rush win rate in 2023. His addition to the Colts’ defense could make them one of the best pass-rush units in the NFL next season.
Despite Latu’s potential, there are concerns about his medical history, particularly a neck injury that forced him to medically retire while at Washington. However, he was cleared to play at UCLA and became a dominant pass-rusher in college football. If Latu can stay healthy and perform at a high level in the NFL, he could be a key piece in securing the Colts’ future at a premium position in a pass-heavy league. With several talented young quarterbacks in the AFC South, having a strong pass rush will be crucial for the Colts.
The Colts have built a solid foundation on defense, posting 51 sacks in the 2023 season, which was a franchise record. They have a group of talented pass rushers, including Samson Ebukam, Kwity Paye, DeForest Buckner, and Dayo Odeyingbo. Latu’s addition adds depth and potential for the team, especially with Paye and Odeyingbo set to become free agents in the near future. By selecting Latu in the first round, the Colts are preparing for potential changes in their pass rush rotation in the coming seasons.
Looking ahead to Day 2 of the draft, the Colts have the opportunity to address other positional needs, such as cornerback and wide receiver. By adding depth and talent in these areas, they can further strengthen their roster and create a more competitive team overall. Building a strong defense and supporting their talented young quarterbacks will be key for the Colts as they compete in a tough AFC South division. With the right draft strategy and player development, Indianapolis has the potential to be a contender in the upcoming seasons.
Ben Arthur, the AFC South reporter for FOX Sports, provides insight and analysis on the Colts’ draft picks and team strategy. With previous experience covering NFL teams like the Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans, Arthur brings a wealth of knowledge to his reporting. His expertise in football analysis and player evaluation offers fans a deeper understanding of the Colts’ draft decisions and their implications for the team’s future success. By following Arthur on Twitter and tuning into his coverage, fans can stay informed about the latest developments in the NFL and the AFC South.
Overall, the Colts’ decision to select Laiatu Latu in the first round of the 2023 draft represents a bold move to strengthen their defense and prepare for future challenges. While there are some risks involved due to Latu’s injury history, his potential impact on the team’s pass rush and overall defensive performance could be significant. With talented young players at key positions, the Colts have the opportunity to build a competitive and successful team for the upcoming seasons. By addressing key needs in the draft and focusing on player development, Indianapolis is positioning themselves for success in the AFC South and the NFL as a whole.
