Colts legend Dwight Freeney says rookie Laiatu Latu has a skill he never had
Dwight Freeney is one of the best defensive players to ever play for the Indianapolis Colts. He is just a few weeks away from his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. And he's now shared exactly what he thinks about the Colts' newest pass rusher, Laiatu Latu. Freeney appeared on NFL Network with Steve Wyche, […]
Dwight Freeney is one of the best defensive players to ever play for the Indianapolis Colts.
He is just a few weeks away from his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. And he's now shared exactly what he thinks about the Colts' newest pass rusher, Laiatu Latu.
Freeney appeared on NFL Network with Steve Wyche, and one of the things they discussed was the Colts' first-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, Laiatu Latu. Here is what he had to say about the Colts newest pass rusher.
"I think he has size and mobility. He's not the fastest guy, but he does perform moves. So when I sit there and watch him I see him effectively using his hands, using his leverage. And when you are a younger guy, sometimes that doesn't develop until later into your NFL career; sometimes, you just use straight athleticism. But when you watch him at UCLA and how he likes to use his hands and just use his straight up ability to make plays. I hope they know how to use him the right way because he can move around to different spots. He doesn't just stay on the right side like me; I'm on the right side. You know exactly where I am. A guy like him he can move inside he can go to the other side. It's going to be a challenge for offenses out there to learn how to stop him if he continues to grow."
– Dwight Freeney speaking about Laiatu Latu on NFL Network
You have to love seeing one of the greatest pass rushers in the Colts franchise's history give such a strong endorsement for Latu ahead of his rookie season. Especially hearing Freeney share that Latu can line up anywhere on the defensive line, a skill that he himself didn't have during his time in the NFL.
That type of versatilty should help Latu carve out a big role during his rookie season, even with the Colts having a bit of a log jam at the moment all throughout the defensive line. I think he will end up being a day one starter off the edge, but finding a way to have your absolute best pass rushers on the field during clear passing situations will be key for the Colts' defense in 2024. And Latu's ability to move around will open the door for the Colts to do just that as early as 2024.
Here is Freeney's full interview on NFL Network.
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