In the latest 2024 NFL Mock Draft from Ryan Roberts of College Sports Wire, the Miami Dolphins are selecting former UCLA Bruin defensive end Laiatu Latu in the first round.
Selected with the 21st pick, Latu falls further on the draft board than some mock drafts have in the past. But with a first-round laden with talented quarterbacks and receivers, Latu falling out of the top 15 is not entirely surprising.
Here’s what Roberts wrote about Latu being mocked to the Dolphins:
Before the season, edge was unlikely to be a need for the Dolphins this offseason. Unfortunately, injuries to Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb have changed that equation. Latu, talent-wise, is a steal in this spot. He adds immediate pass rushing help.
Latu, who reached 13 sacks on the year in 2023, drew praise from draft analysts after a successful week of practice at the Senior Bowl. And with the Dolphins dealing with injuries on the edge, Latu makes for a turn-key, blue-chip talent to add to their defense.
Latu is primed to make an impact on any team he is selected by. A gifted talent with three years in college between two programs, Latu’s maturity, and adaptability should translate to wherever he lands. And with new defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver in Miami, if selected, Latu could be a potential centerpiece for Weaver’s pass rush for years to come.