Laiatu Latu Continues Colts Pass Rush Pipeline

The Colts’ latest draft pick is the newest installment of their established pass rush pipeline.

The Indianapolis Colts have no doubt fortified its defensive line with the addition of UCLA EDGE Laiatu Latu. An already deep front, Latu only strengthens the services the Indy DL has to offer.

The draft selection of Laiatu Latu continues what has seemingly been a coincidence-turned-trend which has now evolved into a pipeline of sorts. Coach Eddy McGilvera, otherwise known as Coach Ed on social media for being a well-regarded trainer who specializes in pass rush technique, has been an underlying force behind the pass rusher pipeline to Indy that was alluded to.

The four Colts who’ve trained with Coach Ed prior to Latu’s addition are Kwity Paye, Dayo Odeyingbo, Adetomiwa Adebawore, and Samson Ebukam. Chris Ballard drafted the first three (Paye, Odeyingbo, & Adebawore) while he brought in Ebukam via free agency in 2023.

Drafting Latu makes three consecutive drafts in which Indy has drafted a player linked to training with the well-renowned trainer. Outside of Indianapolis, Maxx Crosby and Khalil Mack are just a couple of names that headline Coach Ed’s CVS receipt of NFL talent he’s trained over the years.

Some may think this trend directly correlates to some behind-the-scenes partnership being established, though McGilvera himself has said there isn’t a relationship between him and the Colts. Indy’s front office may or may not have tabs on Coach Ed’s clients, but one thing is undeniable and that is the Colts appreciate the work he’s putting in just based on their acquisitional trend.

Before becoming the first defensive player selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, Laiatu Latu needed help refining himself as a player. Like those four Colts before him, he chose Coach Ed’s services. Latu has been working with Coach Ed for quite some time now, perfecting his craft along the way.

When it comes to what makes Latu so special, his physical ability is only half of the battle. Latu’s versatility across the defensive line is one aspect to deal with, but his mentality coupled with his talent is what makes for his sky-high potential in the NFL.

There’s no question that Laiatu Latu has all of the talent in the world but he’s adding to an already crowded, and very talented, defensive front. His services may not be on centerstage come year one, but even browsing through Coach Ed’s catalog of top-tier pass rushers he’s worked with is enough to provide optimism about Latu’s future.