NFL Draft Deadline Winners: Programs Bringing Back Talent: LSU Football

The NFL Draft deadline marks a critical point in the college football calendar, where players who are eligible to declare for the draft make their final decisions about whether to pursue professional opportunities or return to school for another season. For programs like LSU Football, the decision to return key players for another season can have a profound impact on their chances of success in the upcoming campaign. LSU, one of the most storied programs in college football, has experienced significant victories during this period, with several star players opting to return for the 2024 season rather than head to the NFL.

In this article, we’ll explore the significance of LSU’s retention of key players and how their decisions will impact the team’s future. We’ll also dive into the broader implications of these returns for LSU Football, which continues to strive for SEC and national championships under head coach Brian Kelly.

LSU Football: A Program Built on Talent and Development

Before we delve into the specific players and decisions that have defined LSU’s offseason, it’s essential to understand why LSU remains a top-tier football program year in and year out. The LSU Tigers have a rich history of success, consistently competing for SEC and national titles. Under head coach Brian Kelly, LSU is building a program that not only attracts elite talent but also develops it into professional-level athletes.

LSU’s strength lies in its ability to recruit and develop top-tier athletes, particularly in areas like wide receiver, defensive line, and cornerback. The program has a long-standing reputation for producing players who go on to have successful careers in the NFL. From Ja’Marr Chase to Justin Jefferson, Odell Beckham Jr., and Tyronne Mathieu, LSU has produced a remarkable list of NFL-caliber players. The program also boasts an intense, disciplined coaching style that consistently yields results, making it one of the most attractive destinations for top recruits.

The importance of retaining top players, therefore, cannot be overstated. A strong NFL Draft deadline performance, with players choosing to return, can significantly boost a program’s chances of succeeding in the coming season. LSU’s success at this critical juncture in the offseason bodes well for the team’s immediate and long-term future.

Key LSU Players Who Are Returning for 2024

LSU has had a productive offseason in terms of retaining key players who had the potential to declare for the NFL Draft. The return of several highly rated players to Baton Rouge is a major win for the program, and it gives LSU a significant advantage going into the 2024 season.

Jayden Daniels – Quarterback

One of the most significant returns for LSU came from Jayden Daniels, the starting quarterback for the Tigers. Daniels had a standout 2023 season, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 28 touchdowns while also contributing significantly on the ground with over 1,000 rushing yards. His dual-threat ability makes him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in college football.

Daniels had an excellent season in 2023 and was widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the SEC. His decision to return for 2024 was a massive win for LSU, as it provides the Tigers with a seasoned leader at the most important position on the field. With another year under his belt, Daniels could elevate his game to new heights, and LSU will benefit from his experience, leadership, and playmaking ability. Daniels’ decision to return keeps the Tigers’ offense potent and ready for a run at the SEC title and potentially a national championship.

Harold Perkins Jr. – Linebacker

On the other side of the ball, Harold Perkins Jr., one of the most dynamic linebackers in the country, opted to return for his sophomore season in 2024. Perkins made an immediate impact in 2023 as a freshman, earning numerous All-American honors and establishing himself as one of the top defensive players in the nation. His combination of speed, strength, and football IQ makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses.

Perkins’ decision to stay another year was critical for LSU’s defense. A key part of the Tigers’ defensive success, Perkins has the potential to become one of the top players in college football over the next two seasons. His ability to rush the passer, cover running backs in the flat, and act as a sideline-to-sideline tackler makes him a key asset for the Tigers. With Perkins back in the fold, LSU’s defense will have a player capable of changing the course of a game with a single play.

Malik Nabers – Wide Receiver

Another crucial return for LSU is Malik Nabers, a standout wide receiver who had a breakout 2023 season. Nabers recorded over 1,200 yards receiving and 12 touchdowns, playing a vital role in LSU’s high-powered offense. His ability to make explosive plays and provide a reliable target for Daniels in the passing game made him one of the top wide receivers in the SEC.

Nabers’ decision to return to LSU gives the Tigers one of the most dynamic receiving corps in college football. Paired with Daniels at quarterback, Nabers has the potential to break more records and lead LSU’s offense to even greater heights. His chemistry with Daniels will be a crucial component of LSU’s success in 2024, and his return ensures that LSU will have a reliable and explosive weapon in the passing game.

B.J. Ojulari – Defensive End

On the defensive side of the ball, B.J. Ojulari, a standout defensive end for LSU, also chose to return for another season. Ojulari had a stellar 2023 season, recording double-digit sacks and being a consistent presence in the backfield. His ability to disrupt the quarterback and apply pressure was one of the main reasons LSU’s defense was able to excel.

Ojulari’s return strengthens LSU’s already formidable defensive line. His presence will allow LSU to continue its aggressive pass rush and maintain pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Ojulari’s return provides a level of consistency and leadership on the defensive side of the ball, giving the Tigers a solid foundation on which to build for 2024.

How LSU’s Returnees Impact the 2024 Season

The return of these key players—Jayden Daniels, Harold Perkins Jr., Malik Nabers, and B.J. Ojulari—positions LSU as one of the top contenders for the SEC title and a potential playoff berth in the 2024 season. With so much talent returning, LSU’s chances of competing for a national championship have increased significantly.

Offensive Power

The combination of Daniels and Nabers is one of the most lethal in the country. LSU’s offense will remain a high-flying, explosive unit capable of scoring points quickly and efficiently. Daniels’ ability to extend plays with his legs, combined with his arm strength and accuracy, allows LSU to remain unpredictable on offense. Nabers’ return ensures that LSU has a reliable target in the passing game, capable of making big plays and stretching the field.

Moreover, LSU’s offensive line, which has been a strength of the program in recent years, will have a chance to gel further with Daniels at the helm. The continuity at quarterback and receiver allows the Tigers to develop a rhythm and chemistry that will be difficult for opposing defenses to contain.

Defensive Strength

Defensively, the return of Harold Perkins Jr. and B.J. Ojulari solidifies LSU’s defensive front seven. Perkins is one of the most versatile players in college football, and his ability to wreak havoc on opposing offenses is unparalleled. His presence, along with Ojulari’s pass-rushing ability, gives LSU a dynamic and potent defense that can dominate on any given Saturday.

LSU’s defense will likely be one of the top units in the SEC, and with more depth on the defensive line and linebacker corps, the Tigers will be able to apply constant pressure while maintaining solid coverage on the back end.

Implications for Recruiting

LSU’s ability to retain star players also has significant implications for its recruiting efforts. High school prospects see that LSU has a strong, stable program where players can develop under a highly respected coaching staff. The returns of key players demonstrate to recruits that LSU is capable of competing at the highest level, both in the SEC and nationally.

Moreover, LSU’s ability to retain players like Daniels, Perkins, Nabers, and Ojulari sends a message to recruits that the program is building for the future and that top talent is given every opportunity to succeed.