Lou Anarumo might have found his new Trey Hendrickson with the Indianapolis Colts. Not in full yet, but very possibly in the near future. While the defensive coordinator has had to deal with many of his players getting injured, one has been healthy and fantastic.
Laiatu Latu is having the exact kind of season that Indy hoped he would have when he was chosen in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft. Not being overly productive as a rookie is fine, though Latu was solid in 2024. First-year players often have a tough time in the league. It's what they learn when dealing with relative failure that matters.
Plus, while Anarumo's system isn't built well for inside linebacker pass coverage, it is made to help talented pass rushers build huge numbers. With the Cincinnati Bengals the last two seasons, Anarumo helped Hendrickson have back-to-back 17.5 sack years. Latu should get to double digits
Laiatu Latu is having a breakout season for the Indianapolis Colts in year two
In 130 fewer pass rush snaps in 2025 so far, the UCLA product has already matched his total pressures from 2024 (38), has one more sack (five to four), and has cut his missed tackle rate in half (25.7 percent in 2024 to 12.5 percent in 2025). He is the sixth-highest-graded edge rusher in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required).
Latu leads Indianapolis in sacks, quarterback hits (tied with DeForest Buckner with 13), quarterback pressures, and, oddly, interceptions with two. He has been a well-rounded bit of greatness, trending toward making the Pro Bowl and potentially an All-Pro team in the future.
Plus, how bad would Indianapolis's defense be without Latu? He missed Week 2, and it is likely no coincidence that it remains the most points allowed by Indy this season (28 to the Denver Broncos).
While the Indianapolis Colts have had multiple injuries in their cornerback group, have had an overall underperforming edge rusher group, and suffered the loss of Buckner, Latu keeps the entire defense from falling apart. He will need to continue to do so as well.
The positive part is that Anarumo's scheme fits him well. The defensive coordinator is unlikely to go anywhere next offseason, which should mean Laiatu Latu's third season could be very special. Maybe even Trey Hendrickson special.