Eagles could find Brandon Graham's replacement in UCLA star Laiatu Latu
The Philadelphia Eagles don't necessarily have a need to fill on their defensive line, but it may be hard to pass on the best pass rusher of the 2024 NFL Draft class. And that's UCLA edge Laiatu Latu, who has been continuing to make his top draft prospect case at the Senior Bowl this week. […]
The Philadelphia Eagles don't necessarily have a need to fill on their defensive line, but it may be hard to pass on the best pass rusher of the 2024 NFL Draft class.
And that's UCLA edge Laiatu Latu, who has been continuing to make his top draft prospect case at the Senior Bowl this week.
The Eagles have used their last two first-round draft picks on defensive linemen, which has worked out in their favor, and with Brandon Graham on his way out, it wouldn't hurt to use one more on a quality defensive end if they decide to go that route.
Latu Was Recognized as the Best Defensive Lineman in 2023
Through 12 games last season, Latu logged 21.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks and a pair of forced fumbles for the Bruins.
He led the nation in tackles for loss per game (1.8) and ranked fourth in sacks per game (1.08). Additionally, his 21.5 tackles for loss were the most by any player in the nation in 2023.
He received the Lombardi Award, which is given to college football's best defensive lineman, and was named the Pac-12 Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the Year for his outstanding performances.
While speaking with A to Z Sports' Travis May, Latu said he models his game after NFL stars Maxx Crosby and TJ Watt.
He also gave a shout-out to his former Washington teammate, Joe Tyron.
"I mean, I have to give credit to Joe Tryon on the Bucs because he's been my big brother ever since being at Washington and he took me under his wing and showed me what success looks like," Latu said. "He sends me clips of him in the league and he moves. You know, I'll steal those moves. But other dudes being like Max Crosby and TJ Watt really."
Aside from Watt or Crosby, Latu said he would love to work with Montez Sweat or T.J. Henderson if he had the chance.
While Eagles players did not make Latu's list, I'm sure he wouldn't mind coming to Philly to work with some of the best either.
Eagles should consider drafting Hall of Famer Jerry Rice’s son
Not a bad idea.
