Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Moving up edition

Commanders draft Laiatu Latu

• Edge Rusher | UCLA Bruins
• No. 36 overall

After trading Chase Young and Montez Sweat before the deadline, the Washington Commanders must find another dynamic edge rusher from the college ranks in 2024. There's been no consistent pressure generated without the former starting defensive end tandem, which is something that cannot continue next season if this team wants to make strides.

Young and Sweat were going to be expensive. Trading them was a cost-cutting measure that could allow other areas to get a much-needed boost if the Commanders find the right reinforcements via the draft.

Someone like Laiatu Latu ticks all the boxes. The formidable edge presence has come of age at UCLA over the last two seasons, registering 23.5 sacks and 34 tackles for loss, displaying the sort of traits normally associated with productive pass-rushers at the next level.

Latu is explosive, gets off the block rapidly, and has enough functional strength to make things happen against the run. The prospect's motor is relentless and his anticipation is another strong area of his production that demands the utmost respect.

There are some medical concerns that need to be alleviated before the Commanders make this move. But Latu's been healthy for two seasons now and could be exactly what Washington is looking for.