INDIANAPOLIS — Laiatu Latu aims to build on a breakout second NFL season with the Indianapolis Colts by adding strength and targeting double-digit sacks in 2026. The Colts’ first-round pick recorded 8.5 sacks and 61 pressures in his second season, an increase from his rookie totals of 4.0 sacks and 38 pressures.
Latu focused on adding muscle during the 2026 offseason to enhance his power as a pass rusher. "I definitely have," he said of adding strength. "I definitely lost a good (amount of) body fat, gained muscle mass on me, and I think it definitely shows. I was really locked in the offseason, really just growing a lot of strength, but keeping my bend and stuff like that."
His improved performance placed him 15th among defensive ends in total pressures and 25th in Pro Football Focus’s pass rush win rate metric. Despite the statistical gains, Latu emphasized refining the details of his game.
With the departures of Kwity Paye, Samson Ebukam, and Tyquan Lewis in free agency, Latu’s role on the defensive line has grown. "I definitely understand that," he said, "and I know that and I carry myself in that way knowing that I'm relied on. They're looking to me to be one of the guys and a leader in that aspect. So I'm doing that part on the field and off the field." Latu now aims to become the first Colts player to record double-digit sacks since Justin Houston posted 11.0 in 2019.
Colts head coach Shane Steichen noted Latu’s offseason work ethic and physical development. "I think he’s worked tremendously hard this offseason," Steichen said. "Obviously, we’re not in pads right now, but he’s had some good pass rush moves and you can see the strength and explosiveness off the ball. So, obviously want a big year from him and I know he wants that as well."