SJSU Captain Taniela Latu: The Defensive Heartbeat Who Just Signed with the CFL's Ottawa Redblacks
Taniela Latu, the 6'2", 231 lbs senior linebacker from San Mateo, CA, is the **defensive heartbeat** of San Jose State, having led the team with **70 tackles** and **7 Tackles For Loss (TFL)** in the 2024 season while earning **Captain** status [5]. His differentiator is **unmatched intensity and off-field leadership**, evidenced by his nomination for the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team [5]. Over three seasons, he accumulated **83 solo tackles**, **74 assists**, **2.0 sacks**, and **1 interception**, proving he is a **versatile playmaker** who thrives against non-Power 5 opponents with a **0.67 TFL/G** rate [1][2]. You should care because Latu isn't just a stat leader; he's a **culture-setter** who brings elite **toughness** and **consistency** (0.58 TFL/G overall) [1]. He is an **ideal fit** for any team needing a **proven leader** who has already transitioned to the professional level, recently signing with the **Ottawa Redblacks** in the CFL [3]. While his 2024 TFL average dipped slightly against ranked teams (0.75 TFL/G in just 2 games), his **volume production** and **football IQ** make him a reliable, high-intensity asset ready for the next level [1].
