Three LSU Standouts Shine as NFL Rookies After Record-Breaking College Careers
Just a year ago, Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers, and Brian Thomas Jr. were electrifying the college football world as part of a dynamic LSU Tigers offense. Today, these three athletes have earned national recognition for their performances as rookies in the NFL. On Thursday, the league announced the finalists for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, with Daniels, Nabers, and Thomas making the list alongside Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers and Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix.
This trio’s remarkable transition from collegiate stars to NFL standouts has been the talk of the football world. Their success in the professional ranks underscores their talent and the dominance of LSU’s offense during their final season together. However, their rise also raises questions about how the Tigers finished with a 10-3 record despite having such a prolific offense.
Jayden Daniels: A Stellar Rookie Quarterback
Jayden Daniels’ rookie season has been nothing short of spectacular. The Washington Commanders quarterback capped off his debut campaign with a Pro Bowl selection, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. Daniels completed 69% of his passes for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns, while also rushing for 891 yards and six scores.
Though his playoff performances have been nearly flawless, they are not considered in the voting for the regular-season award. Nevertheless, Daniels’ ability to make an immediate impact in the NFL is undeniable. His combination of accuracy, athleticism, and composure has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s elite quarterbacks, solidifying his place as one of the best young players in the game.
Malik Nabers: A Record-Breaking Receiver
Malik Nabers, now with the New York Giants, made an immediate splash in his rookie season. He set a franchise record for single-season receptions with 109 catches, despite missing two games. Nabers also became just the fifth rookie in NFL history to record triple-digit receptions in a season.
His ability to consistently find openings in defenses and make crucial plays earned him recognition as one of the league’s top young wideouts. Nabers’ skill set, which combines precision route-running with exceptional hands, has quickly made him a favorite target for his quarterback and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Brian Thomas Jr.: A Dominant Deep Threat
Brian Thomas Jr., playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars, wasted no time making his mark in the NFL. He finished his rookie season ranked third in the league with 1,282 receiving yards and tied for sixth in touchdowns with 10. His knack for explosive plays and ability to stretch the field made him a critical weapon for the Jaguars’ offense.
Thomas’ combination of size, speed, and physicality has been a significant asset for Jacksonville, and his performance this season suggests he has the potential to become one of the league’s premier receivers in the coming years.
LSU’s Legacy of NFL Talent
The rapid success of Daniels, Nabers, and Thomas in the NFL is not entirely surprising, given their pedigree and draft positions. Daniels was selected second overall, Nabers went sixth, and Thomas was taken 23rd. Their dominance is reminiscent of another trio of LSU alumni—Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Justin Jefferson—who also made an immediate impact in the NFL after standout careers in Baton Rouge.
This pipeline of talent from LSU to the NFL has solidified the program’s reputation as a breeding ground for elite football players. However, it also invites reflection on how the Tigers underperformed relative to the talent they had on offense during the 2023 season.
The 2023 LSU Offense: Record-Setting but Flawed
In 2023, the LSU Tigers’ offense was one of the most potent in college football history. Daniels won the Heisman Trophy after leading the nation with 40 touchdowns, 11.7 yards per attempt, and a 208.0 passer rating. Nabers topped the nation in receptions (89) and receiving yards (1,569), while Thomas led in receiving touchdowns (17).
Despite these staggering numbers, LSU finished the season with a 10-3 record, falling short of championship contention. Losses to No. 8 Florida State, No. 20 Mississippi, and No. 8 Alabama were particularly frustrating, as the Tigers’ defense struggled mightily in those games, allowing a combined 142 points.
The defensive shortcomings overshadowed an otherwise historic offensive season, leaving fans and analysts to wonder what could have been. With Daniels, Nabers, and Thomas now excelling in the NFL, the 2023 season will likely be remembered as a missed opportunity for LSU to achieve greatness.
A Bright Future for LSU Alumni
As Daniels, Nabers, and Thomas continue to develop into NFL stars, their success serves as both a point of pride and a bittersweet reminder for LSU fans. While their talent has translated seamlessly to the professional level, their departure leaves lingering questions about how the Tigers failed to fully capitalize on their offensive firepower during their time in Baton Rouge.
Nonetheless, their legacy at LSU is secure. They are part of a rich tradition of excellence that has produced some of the NFL’s brightest stars. As they compete for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, their achievements highlight the incredible potential of LSU’s football program and its ability to produce top-tier talent year after year.
Final Thoughts
The rise of Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers, and Brian Thomas Jr. in the NFL is a testament to their skill, determination, and preparation. Their remarkable rookie seasons have solidified their status as some of the best young players in the league, while also shining a spotlight on the LSU program that helped shape them.
As they continue to make headlines in the professional ranks, their journey will undoubtedly inspire future generations of LSU players and fans. For now, their focus is on building their NFL careers, but their time in Baton Rouge will always be a cherished chapter in their football stories.
