Indianapolis Colts rookie defensive end Laiatu Latu has been strong as a pass rusher in recent weeks.
Accordingly In the last two games, Latu had a total of eight pressures, two sacks and one forced fumble.
Compared to the rest of his league-wide position group, Latu ranked third in PFF's pass rush rating during that span. He is also fifth in pass rush win rate and tied for seventh in sacks.
“We’ve seen in training and games that things are starting to work out and as I mentioned before, the conversations with him are just continuing.” . “The chances will come and he made a big play for us. He did a few other chases, I think he ran down a screen, he set the edge, the week before the flare screen.”
At the start of the season, statistics in terms of pressing and sacks did not always accurately reflect Latu's impact on the game or the progress he was making.
However, from Week 1 to now, he has consistently performed well when it comes to pass rush win percentage. Entering Week 13, Latu ranks 26th out of 122 eligible edge defenders in this category, showing that if there is consistency, performance will eventually follow.
Latu's run defense has also improved. Over the last three games, he ranked 18th in his position group in run stops. These comprehensive skills have also resulted in increased playing time.
“He's really developed into not only being a rusher, but also being able to rush the passer, but also having really good football instincts,” Bradley added. “His chasing ability, his running ability, the effort he shows on tape, all of those things put him in a position to make some big plays for us.”
Next up for Latu and the Colts is a matchup against New England as he looks to continue to build momentum. The Patriots will enter this game with the fourth-highest quarterback pressure rate this season.
