The Colt are Asking: Could a newcomer to the Colts potentially become the most effective pass rusher since Freeney and Mathis?

The Indianapolis Colts are placing high expectations on Laiatu Latu, whom they drafted 15th overall in the recent 2024 NFL Draft. There’s speculation that he could eventually rival the franchise’s best pass rushers since the era of Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis.

While such a prediction for Latu is ambitious, it’s important to recognize that it will take time for him to reach that level. Having just been drafted and yet to play an NFL preseason game, the UCLA defensive end possesses undeniable potential to become an exceptional player.

Could Laiatu Latu Emerge as the Indianapolis Colts’ Premier Pass-Rusher Since Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis?
Reflecting on the Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis Legacy
The Colts secured Freeney as the 11th overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft. Across his illustrious 16-year career, which included stints with other teams, Freeney’s prime years were with the Colts, where he spent his first 11 seasons. As a Colt, he earned First-Team All-Pro honors three times and Second-Team once, alongside seven Pro Bowl selections. Freeney’s impact extended to leading the league in sacks in 2004 and sharing the lead in forced fumbles in 2002. Crucially, he contributed to the Colts’ Super Bowl XLI victory and was later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024.

Meanwhile, Mathis, drafted by the Colts in the fifth round of the 2003 draft, enjoyed a remarkable 14-year career entirely with the team. With Freeney, he formed a formidable defensive duo, amassing 186 sacks during their decade together. Mathis achieved five Pro Bowl selections, one First-Team All-Pro recognition, and led the league in forced fumbles thrice. He also clinched a Super Bowl title, though his Hall of Fame induction is pending.

Both Freeney and Mathis left an indelible mark on the Colts’ history as legendary figures in their defensive line.

The Potential of Laiatu Latu as a Future Star
While many anticipated the Colts drafting an offensive player or a cornerback, they surprised by selecting Latu, the draft’s first defensive player. Despite a neck injury during his time at Washington leading to a medical retirement, Latu revived his career at UCLA, accumulating 23.5 sacks over two seasons.

With a robust physique at 6-5, 259 pounds, Latu possesses a relentless work ethic and impressive athleticism. He could complement the Colts’ existing pass-rushing talents, potentially enhancing their defensive prowess.

Given the Colts’ recent sack record and the absence of elite pass-rushers since the Freeney-Mathis era, Latu’s emergence as a dominant force wouldn’t be surprising.