In a weekend filled with anticipation and excitement, the 2024 NFL Draft unfolded in Detroit, bringing forth the realization of professional football dreams for several former LSU players. Despite not boasting the largest draft class in recent memory, LSU proudly saw six of its alumni receive the call to join the ranks of the NFL. Among them, three former Tigers stood tall as first-round picks – Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers, and Brian Thomas Jr., echoing the glory of past draft classes, notably the celebrated 2020 cohort that included Joe Burrow and Justin Jefferson.
Let’s take a closer look at each player’s journey to the pros and where they’ll be igniting their careers:
Jayden Daniels – Washington Commanders
Round 1, Pick 2
As widely anticipated, Jayden Daniels embarks on his NFL journey with the Washington Commanders. Joining the fray under the stewardship of Kliff Kingsbury, Daniels enters a realm fortified with the likes of Terry McLaurin and newly acquired talents. Selected as the second quarterback off the board, Daniels stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the franchise’s gridiron narrative.
Malik Nabers – New York Giants
Round 1, Pick 6
In a strategic move that defied conventional predictions, the New York Giants secured Malik Nabers with their top-10 pick. Opting for offensive prowess over the quarterback slot, the Giants bestowed Daniel Jones with a formidable weapon in Nabers. This landmark selection etched LSU into history as the first institution to witness both quarterback and receiver drafted within the top 10 in the same draft.
Brian Thomas Jr. – Jacksonville Jaguars
Round 1, Pick 23
Despite a slight tradeback, the Jacksonville Jaguars landed their coveted prospect in Brian Thomas Jr. Anointed as a potential primary receiving target for quarterback prodigy Trevor Lawrence, Thomas brings a wealth of talent honed on the LSU gridiron. Leading the FBS in receiving touchdowns this season, Thomas emerges as a beacon of promise for the Jaguars’ offensive arsenal.
Maason Smith – Jacksonville Jaguars
Round 2, Pick 48
Venturing into Day 2 of the draft, the Jaguars fortified their defensive front by drafting Maason Smith. Adding depth to a roster already adorned with defensive stalwarts, Smith’s trajectory was slightly marred by a season-opening ACL injury in 2022. However, his resilience and potential augur well for the Jaguars’ defensive ambitions.
Jordan Jefferson – Jacksonville Jaguars
Round 4, Pick 116
In a testament to LSU’s defensive prowess, the Jaguars continued their LSU recruitment spree by selecting Jordan Jefferson. A graduate transfer from West Virginia, Jefferson swiftly ascended from rotational play to become a cornerstone of LSU’s defensive strategy. His addition bolsters the Jaguars’ defensive fortitude for the challenges ahead.
Mekhi Wingo – Detroit Lions
Round 6, Pick 189
Despite a modest slide in the draft, Mekhi Wingo found his NFL home with the Detroit Lions. Standing tall at 6 feet, Wingo’s journey to the pros was marked by accolades and resilience. Although hampered by injuries in the 2023 season, Wingo’s prowess earned him recognition as an All-SEC and All-American selection, making him a valuable addition to the Lions’ roster.
In the aftermath of the 2024 NFL Draft, LSU proudly basks in the spotlight, witnessing the ascension of its gridiron luminaries to the grand stage of professional football. As these former Tigers embark on their NFL odyssey, they carry with them the indomitable spirit and legacy of LSU football, poised to etch new chapters in the annals of gridiron glory.
