“Best I’ve Played With”: Former UCLA Teammate Welcomes Laiatu Latu to the NFL With a Heartwarming Message

Laiatu Latu made his fancy entry to the NFL as the Indianapolis Colts selected him in the first round, making him the first defensive player off the board. After an offensive-heavy start to the draft, the Colts seized the chance to grab the best available defender with the 15th pick.

The defensive lineman had an amazing college career at UCLA, which boosted his draft stocks. During his peak times at UCLA, he racked up some double-digit sacks and a couple of interceptions, forced fumbles, and defended passes. This impressive display earned him the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year award and All-American recognition. Now, this defensive powerhouse is all set to start his NFL journey with a heartfelt congratulatory note from a familiar UCLA face. 

Zach Charbonnet welcomes Latu to the NFL

Last year, former UCLA running back Zach Charbonnet found his place in the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks. Now, his teammate Laiatu Latu follows in his footsteps after being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the first round. Charbonnet was thrilled to see his former teammate join the league, posting a heartfelt message for him on Instagram: “Congrats to my brotha, one of the best I’ve played with.”

Zach posted pics from the UCLA reunion with wide receiver Kazmeir Allen and Laiatu Latu. However, he shared a special photo of him hugging Latu and congratulating him on his NFL journey. Zach and Latu were recognized as key figures in UCLA’s success in 2022, even making the All-Pac-12 First Team. Thus, Zach’s praise for Latu seems sincere, and his new team, the Colts, is just as excited to have him.

Laiatu Latu’s NFL journey begins with hope

Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard is confident they made the right choice by drafting pass-rusher Laiatu Latu. Ballard boldly declared, “We got the best f**king rusher in the draft!” Many experts agree, considering Latu the top defensive player in this year’s class. His 6’5″ height and 259-pound frame are ideal for an NFL defenseman. Even though Latu isn’t the fastest, as he clocked a 4.64 40-yard dash time, he might compensate for it with superior game sense.

Besides his speed, people also worried about the neck injury he suffered while playing for the Washington Huskies. This even temporarily forced his medical retirement. However, that’s behind him now, and the Colts aren’t worried about his speed or health. Latu earned the highest overall PFF grade among FBS defenders in 2023, a testament to his skills. The Colts believe in Latu, and his impressive stats and awards back up their confidence. If Latu keeps up the good work, he’ll have a great career with the Colts and could even become his teammates’ “favorite player to work with.”