San Francisco 49ers select Cameron Latu in third round of 2023 NFL Draft

Another Alabama player is off the board, with Cameron Latu being selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The 49ers selected the tight end with the No. 101 pick on Friday night.

Appearing in just 11 games this season for the Crimson Tide, Latu spent most of the season as the main tight end. He recorded 30 receptions for 377 yards and four touchdowns. Quarterback Bryce Young connected well with Latu over their two seasons together in college.

Latu will leave Tuscaloosa with his name in the record books. He owns the single-season record for most touchdowns scored by a tight end — getting eight during the 2021 season. He surpassed current Cincinnati Bengals player Irv Smith Jr., who was able to snag seven during the 2018 season.

Teams at the NFL Combine did not have the opportunity to see Latu work out. He was dealing with a hamstring injury but was still in Indianapolis to meet with teams. Latu had the opportunity to impress during the Senior Bowl and then again during Alabama’s Pro Day.

Latu played high school football at Salt Lake City (UT) Olympus, where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 129 overall recruit in the 2018 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

What NFL Draft analysts are saying about Cameron Latu

Lance Zierlein of NFL.com broke down Latu as a prospect, talking about the pros and cons. According to the analyst, Latu has an “average” ceiling due to being a pass-catching tight end and having trouble with drops. However, decent blocking plays a role, especially in the NFL.

“High-hipped pass-catching tight end with run blocking fortitude to mold,” Zierlein said. “Latu’s lean legs and angular frame aren’t made for drive blocking or neutralizing bigger players, but he does a nice job of sustaining move blocks in space.

“He changes route speed to open throwing windows over the first two levels. There are some issues with focus drops at times, but he plucks throws with good hand extension when possible. Latu could have roster appeal as an F tight end with an average ceiling.”

In a league where tight ends can be a real difference maker, 49ers has drafted one who made an impact in the SEC. Latu will be a good downfield threat when called upon, hoping to continue his touchdown-scoring ways.