NFL Mock Draft: Los Angeles Rams Target Top Local Prospect?
The Los Angeles Rams will face an unfamiliar feeling as they prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft. For the first time since 2016, the Rams will have a first-round pick to work with.
The Rams have a slew of needs that they could address, but The Athletic projects that they will look to bolster their pass rush by taking UCLA defensive end Laiatu Latu.
Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Melquan Stovall (7) runs against UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Laiatu Latu (15) at the Rose Bowl.
Alex Gallardo-USA TODAY Sports
"Latu doesn’t have ideal length, and I don’t expect him to test off the charts, but some rushers just know how to get after the quarterback — Latu ranks No. 1 in college football with 64 pressures," The Athletic writes. "A pass-rush duo of Latu and Byron Young would be a great foundation for the Rams’ defense."
Latu is the second EDGE rusher taken off the board behind Alabama's Dallas Turner, who went No. 10 overall. He does a great job at getting after the quarterback, and the Rams certainly could use more reinforcements on that front.
The Rams have 25 sacks so far this season, which ranks 22nd in the league. Aaron Donald leads the team with 5.5 sacks, while rookie Byron Young has 5.0, so adding another player with the potential to get after the quarterback will be a huge addition for the Rams' front seven.
With the team holding a first-round pick for the first time in eight years, the Rams will finally be able to add and develop some top-tier talent, which should help the team re-tool and get closer to the mountaintops of the NFL.
