Colts Rookie Could Be Best Pass-Rusher Since Freeney/Mathis

Laiatu Latu, a rookie, might become the Indianapolis Colts’ best pass rusher since Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis.

The Indianapolis Colts had great expectations for Laiatu Latu, whom they chose 15th overall in the recent 2024 NFL Draft. It is feasible that he will one day become the franchise’s best pass rusher since Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis.

Sure, Latu is capable of accomplishing such a tall goal. However, that will take a long time to materialize. The UCLA defensive end has yet to play an NFL preseason game. He has the ability to be a standout player.

Could Laiatu Latu Become the Indianapolis Colts’ Best Pass-Rusher Since Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis?

Remembering the Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis Era

The Colts chose Freeney with the 11th overall choice in the 2002 NFL Draft. The former Syracuse Orangeman had a successful 16-year career, playing for the San Diego (now Los Angeles) Chargers, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, and Seattle Seahawks.

However, Freeney’s best years came in Indianapolis, where he spent his first 11 seasons. As a Colt, he was chosen to the First Team All-Pro three times and the Second Team once. The seven-time Pro Bowler also led the NFL in sacks (16) in 2004 and shared the league lead in forced fumbles in 2002.

More importantly, Freeney played a key role in Peyton Manning’s Super Bowl XLI victory over the Chicago Bears. He was also inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024.

Indianapolis selected Mathis in the fifth round (138th overall) of the 2003 draft. The Alabama A&M product spent the entirety of his 14-year career with the Colts. He spent a decade with fellow defensive end Freeney, and they routinely got to the opposing team’s quarterback.

Mathis was a five-time Pro Bowler who was named to the First Team All-Pro once. He led the league in forced fumbles three times and won a Super Bowl title. Unlike Freeney, he has yet to enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Freeney and Mathis are also Colts legends. They are easily one of the finest defensive line duos of all time, having combined for 186 sacks over ten seasons together.

Laiatu Latu Might Be a Future Star

Many supporters thought the Colts would trade up in this year’s draft to get a pass-catcher such as Marvin Harrison Jr. or Brock Bowers. Most mock drafts had them selecting a cornerback in the first round. Nonetheless, the Colts astonished everyone by selecting Laiatu Latu, the first defensive player chosen in the draft.

During his tenure at Washington, Latu developed a neck problem that forced him to quit due to medical reasons. However, he returned to UCLA and recorded 23.5 sacks over the last two seasons.

If he maintains his health, Latu has the potential to be a formidable Colt. The 6-5, 259-pounder has a strong drive and never gives up on a play. He has outstanding size for an NFL edge and demonstrates athleticism and a quick twitch.

Last season, the Colts set an Indianapolis-era franchise record with 51 sacks. Latu might partner up with Samson Ebukam, Kwity Paye, and Dayo Odeyingbo to strengthen the squad’s pass-rushing unit.

Since Freeney and Mathis were on the roster, the Colts have not had an excellent pass rusher. Do not be surprised if Laiatu Latu is next in line.