DONE DEAL: Broncos Land Explosive Edge Rusher in a Blockbuster Trade From UCLA Bruins football

With only a week until the commencement of the 2024 NFL Draft, mock season is in full gear. During this time, numerous significant players for the Denver Broncos have been mocked. This is understandable given the roster’s need for significant improvement.

The question is whether the Broncos will remain at pick 12 in the first round. Some observers predict Denver will move up to choose their future quarterback, while others believe they will trade back to gain more draft cash.
But what if they stay at 12 and choose the greatest player available? One NFL Network pundit appears to believe the Broncos will do exactly that. According to Peter Schrager’s latest 2024 1.0 NFL mock draft, the Broncos will select UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu.

Laiatu Latu's Draft Profile | UCLA, EDGE Scouting Report
Schrager said the following regarding the selection:

“Many consider Latu to be the best pure pass rusher in the draft, and if the board falls this way, he could end up in Denver.” The Broncos would love to move up and snag a top-four quarterback, but I don’t believe they have the ammunition. They’d have to really like Bo Nix or Michael Penix Jr. to draft them at No. 12 overall. (Like, REALLY adore.) So, Latu is the prognosis here.”

Latu started at the University of Washington and appeared in 12 games. During his sophomore year, he sustained a neck injury that forced him to retire at the start of 2021 spring practices. In 2022, he transferred to UCLA. During his two seasons with the Bruins, he recorded 23.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and two interceptions.

Bo Nix vs. Michael Penix Jr. stats: Inside the 2023 numbers for Oregon,  Washington Heisman candidates | Sporting News Canada
Despite his medical concerns, he is the top pure pass rusher in the draft. That is because he is a technician for the position. He is really explosive and can time the snap exactly to get away as quickly as possible. Furthermore, the way he can position his feet and hands in the mud helps him to bend more efficiently and outperform any offensive lineman he confronts.

His strength is in his hands. His hands not only help him with accuracy and timing, but they also aid in his cross chop. This allows him to direct his force to the offensive line’s chest, clearing a route for the quarterback.

Latu Named to The Sporting News All-America Team - UCLA

It’s no secret that the Broncos could use all the help they can get in the pass-rushing area. Although Baron Browning, Jonathon Cooper, and Nik Bonitto are all capable players, the Broncos lack the outstanding prospect that other offences fear. If taken by Denver, Latu has the potential to become a big name in the NFL.

 

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