In a hypothetical 2024 NFL Re-Draft by Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report, the Detroit Lions altered their approach to strengthen their pass rush. Instead of sticking with Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold, the Lions chose UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu to bolster their defense.
Why the Switch to Latu?
Initially, the Lions picked Arnold to improve their secondary, but Aidan Hutchinson’s season-ending injury exposed the team’s weakness on the defensive line. Without Hutchinson, their pass rush faltered. In this re-draft, Detroit opted for a defensive upgrade by pairing Hutchinson with Latu to reinforce their edge rushing.
Laiatu Latu, a 6’5″, 265-pound edge rusher, was the first defensive player taken in the original draft. Despite recording just four sacks as a rookie, Latu’s potential stood out. Praised by former Colts defensive coordinator Gus Bradley for his relentless effort and instincts, Latu became an appealing option for a Lions team needing dependable support for Hutchinson.
What Latu Offers
While rookie pass rushers often need time to adapt, Latu showcased his ability to pressure quarterbacks and demonstrated sharp instincts. His four sacks and solid performances earned him PFWA All-Rookie honors, setting the stage for further growth in 2025. For the Lions, drafting Latu in this re-draft would improve their defense and create a dynamic pass-rushing duo with Hutchinson, boosting their Super Bowl aspirations.
What Could This Mean for Detroit’s Future?
Drafting Latu would provide Detroit with an immediate contributor and long-term asset. This re-draft positions the Lions for dominance in pass rushing, with Latu and Hutchinson terrorizing opposing quarterbacks. By focusing on the pass rush, Detroit would strategically prepare for a Super Bowl push in 2025.
Although Arnold was absent from this re-draft’s first round, the Lions’ choice to prioritize their defensive line over their secondary is logical. This move would solidify their foundation for title contention, cementing their status as a top NFL contender.
