The NFL Draft is underway, and LSU boasts several players expected to receive calls. This year’s group of Tigers features dynamic offensive talents and a few defensive tackles likely to be selected in the middle rounds.
Here’s an overview of these prospects:
Jayden Daniels, QB:
The reigning Heisman has soared up draft boards after an impressive 2023 season. Daniels threw for 3,812 yards, 40 touchdowns, and only four interceptions, completing 72% of his passes with an average of 11.7 yards per attempt.
On the ground, Daniels rushed for 1,134 yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging 8.4 yards per carry. He made history as the first player in Southeastern Conference history to surpass 3,800 passing yards and 1,000 rushing yards in a single season.
His remarkable progress reflects his dedication to learning and growth.
Daniels excels as a passer with his quick release and consistent mechanics, particularly in delivering accurate throws, especially deep passes and outside the numbers.
However, questions have been raised about his ability to throw over the middle, as only 9.3% of his dropbacks targeted this area, ranking relatively low among college quarterbacks since 2019. Nonetheless, his success in LSU’s offense, led by weapons like Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr., underscores his effectiveness, especially on slot fades.
In 2023, he completed 64% of his passes of 20 yards or more, tallying 35 completions, 22 touchdowns, and zero interceptions.
Daniels is known for his mobility, but his skill set extends beyond running. With quick, controlled footwork and excellent field vision, he can outrun defensive backs and change angles effectively.
However, he sometimes relies too heavily on his legs under pressure, with just 50.6% of his pressured dropbacks resulting in pass attempts, ranking low among qualifying quarterbacks since 2019. Developing the ability to keep his eyes downfield and capitalize on open throws outside the pocket will be crucial at the next level.
Given his stature at 6-foot-3, 210 pounds, avoiding hits is vital for Daniels’ longevity. He has a daring running style reminiscent of the Roadrunner and Johnny Knoxville, but prioritizing sliding or stepping out of bounds can preserve his career.
As one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the draft, Daniels’ potential landing spots are limited. Reports suggest he could go as high as second overall to the Washington Commanders, with the New England Patriots or a trade-up from teams like the Minnesota Vikings or Las Vegas Raiders also possibilities.
Washington appears to be an ideal fit, with an offense under offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury that aligns closely with Daniels’ strengths, including vertical passing concepts and quarterback mobility. Surrounding him with weapons like Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson would further enhance his impact.
Regardless of where he ends up, Daniels possesses the talent to make a significant impact on offense with his arm, legs, and football IQ.
Malik Nabers, WR:
The top target for the Heisman winner concluded the 2023 season with impressive stats: 89 receptions, 1,569 yards, and 14 touchdowns. Nabers is regarded as one of the premier wide receivers in a highly competitive draft class and is expected to be selected within the top 10 picks.
Nabers’ explosive athleticism sets him apart from his peers and makes him a threat both before and after the catch. His exceptional burst allows him to easily gain separation from defenders and create big plays in open space.
His ability to excel vertically is attributed to his athleticism, experience, and mastery of leverage. Nabers can effortlessly adjust his speed to outpace defenders, track deep balls, and utilize his body to shield the catch point.
Even when facing physical coverage, Nabers demonstrates strong hands to secure catches through contact and the strength to break tackles for additional yards.
While LSU’s offense primarily emphasizes vertical routes, Nabers brings versatility to the table. His experience with end-around plays makes him a valuable weapon behind the line of scrimmage. Although there may be room for improvement in route running, Nabers showcases agility to change direction quickly and create separation with his explosiveness.
Debates arise regarding Nabers’ ideal position – slot or outside. In the slot, he benefits from a free release and more space to maneuver laterally. On the outside, he faces challenges from cornerbacks utilizing the sideline to limit his space and apply press coverage. However, Nabers’ exceptional skills often overcome these limitations.
Concerns have been raised about his ability to handle press coverage, but strategic route stemming and hand usage can mitigate these issues.
In terms of potential landing spots, Nabers is expected to be selected early by teams prioritizing wide receiver talent. Analysts suggest he could be off the board before Marvin Harrison Jr. and Rome Odunze.
Potential landing spots range from the Arizona Cardinals at the fourth pick to the New York Jets at the tenth. Other interested teams include the New York Giants, Chicago Bears, and Los Angeles Chargers.
Nabers’ ideal landing spot would be with a quarterback who can maximize his abilities or in a situation where he’s not immediately tasked with dominating on the outside. Teams like the Cardinals, Chargers, and Bears boast quarterbacks who could benefit from Nabers’ talents. Additionally, the Jets and Bears offer enough offensive weapons for Nabers to start in the slot and transition to an outside role over time.
Brian Thomas Jr., WR:
As part of one of LSU’s many formidable receiving duos, Thomas is a big-bodied athlete known for his ability to stretch the field vertically, much like his counterpart. In 2023, he tallied 68 receptions for 1,177 yards and 17 touchdowns.
Standing just under 6-foot-3 and weighing 209 pounds, Thomas possesses the physical attributes to be a downfield threat. His combination of size and athleticism suggests a high ceiling for his potential.
Thomas exhibits explosive acceleration off the line, exceptional ball-tracking skills, and impressive hands. His ability to create separation from defenders makes him a reliable target for his quarterback, Jayden Daniels.
With fluid movements and excellent body control, Thomas has the potential to become a special weapon if he refines his route-running and expands his route tree. Like Nabers, he has shown room for improvement against press coverage, which should be a manageable objective given his size.
Thomas is considered among the second tier of wideouts in the draft, with potential landing spots ranging from Jacksonville at the 17th pick to Buffalo at the 28th. Other sleeper candidates include the Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers, and potentially the Cincinnati Bengals in the event of a Tee Higgins trade, although the latter scenario may be more of an LSU fan’s wishful thinking given other team needs.
Masson Smith, DT:
Projected as the fourth LSU player off the board, Smith is expected to be selected on day two of the draft. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 306 pounds with 35-inch arms, he possesses an ideal size profile for a defensive lineman.
Primarily lining up over the guards outside shoulder (3-technique), Smith has experience playing across the defensive line, ranging from nose to 5-technique.
Smith utilizes his length and power, combined with deceptive quickness, to disrupt offensive linemen. Despite an injury setback during his sophomore year, Smith’s dominant freshman season and impressive physical attributes make him an intriguing prospect.
His pass rush repertoire includes a variety of moves such as the swim move, bull rush, swipes, and clubs, and he rarely misses tackles.
However, inconsistencies in coaching and limited playing time could cloud his draft projection. A coach experienced in developing defensive linemen would be beneficial for Smith’s career progression. Coaches like Andre Patterson with the New York Giants and Anthony Weaver with the Miami Dolphins could provide the necessary guidance.
Mekhi Wingo, DT:
Wingo is expected to be selected shortly after Smith, likely in late day two or early day three of the draft. Despite concerns about his size, his consistent ability to penetrate the line of scrimmage speaks volumes.
Standing at just 6-feet tall and weighing 284 pounds with 32-inch arms, Wingo possesses an impressive 1.63 10-yard split, which was the second-fastest among defensive tackles in the 40-yard dash.
Recognized for his strong work ethic and commitment, Wingo earned the 2022 Iron Tiger Award and had the honor of wearing No. 18, reserved for players who embody LSU’s traits and spirit.
Primarily playing as a 3-technique, Wingo utilizes his explosiveness, fluidity, and agility to disrupt opposing offenses, particularly when rushing the passer. His powerful hands and exceptional body control allow him to create havoc in the pocket from the interior.
While his run defense may not receive as much attention as his pass rush, Wingo’s specialized skills make him valuable, especially in third-and-long situations. If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to make a significant impact at the professional level.
Jordan Jefferson, DT:
Jefferson, the third LSU defensive tackle in the group, showcases his background as a competitive weightlifter in his play style. At the combine, he impressed with his strength, recording 34 reps on the bench press, the highest among defensive tackles. His power is evident in his leg drive and ability to handle offensive linemen with his powerful hands.
However, Jefferson lacks a diverse pass rush repertoire, partly due to his limited lateral agility. Improving his usage of his 33 1/8-inch arms could enhance his effectiveness.
With experience from playing in 55 college games, Jefferson offers a wealth of on-field experience. He is expected to be a late-round selection in the draft.
Charles Turner III, C:
Turner utilizes his 34-inch arms and strong upper body to gain leverage quickly off the snap. He boasts versatility, having started games at center, guard, and tackle during his college career.
Turner could benefit from refining his run blocking in open space and addressing technical flaws such as lunging. Additionally, he has been prone to penalties, accumulating 10 flags in his senior year.
Projected as a late-round pick in the draft, Turner has the potential to contribute to an NFL team’s offensive line.
Other notable prospects to watch in the late rounds or in the undrafted free agent market include defensive end Ovie Oghoufo, linebacker Omar Speights, safety Andre Sam, and running back Noah Cain.
