Which athlete from LSU will be among the next generation of college football stars?

The Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers football program has long been a powerhouse in college football, consistently churning out NFL-caliber talent year after year. From Heisman Trophy winners like Billy Cannon and Joe Burrow to Hall of Fame-bound players like Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Mathieu, LSU has firmly established itself as one of the most successful football programs in the nation. However, as the 2025 season approaches, the next generation of Tigers are preparing to carve their names into the annals of college football history. So, which athlete from LSU is primed to become the next college football star?

In a program brimming with talent, predicting who will rise to stardom is never an easy task. With the coaching of Brian Kelly, an established recruiting pipeline, and a tradition of developing top-tier athletes, LSU has an embarrassment of riches at almost every position. But there are a few players, in particular, who are poised to take center stage as the faces of LSU football in the coming years.

In this article, we will explore several key athletes from LSU’s current roster who are primed to make their mark as the next generation of college football stars.

1. QB Jayden Daniels: LSU’s Offensive Engine

Jayden Daniels, the dual-threat quarterback who transferred to LSU from Arizona State, has already proven himself to be a capable leader for the Tigers. Daniels’ first season in Baton Rouge showcased his remarkable skill set, earning him accolades and the confidence of his coaching staff. Heading into the 2025 season, Daniels could very well be one of the most important figures in college football.

Why Jayden Daniels Could Be a Star

Daniels has the physical tools to dominate college football. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 210 pounds, he possesses both the size and athleticism necessary to excel at the quarterback position. His ability to make plays with his legs adds an extra dimension to LSU’s offense, making him a dual-threat option that’s difficult to defend against. Daniels is also a gifted passer, showing improvement each year at Arizona State and in his debut season at LSU.

In 2023, Daniels helped LSU finish with a 10-4 record, including a memorable win over Alabama. His ability to lead LSU through tough games, especially in high-pressure moments, shows the maturity and poise of a player who is on the verge of stardom. With another year of development and a talented supporting cast around him, Daniels could take his game to an even higher level, making him one of the top quarterbacks in the SEC and a potential Heisman contender.

Moreover, Daniels’ success is crucial to LSU’s offensive identity moving forward. The team’s offensive system under Brian Kelly emphasizes versatility, and Daniels is the perfect quarterback to run it. His dual-threat abilities could make him one of the most dynamic players in college football by the time the 2025 season wraps up, propelling him into the spotlight as one of the sport’s brightest stars.

2. WR Malik Nabers: The Next Elite LSU Receiver

LSU has a long history of producing elite wide receivers, from Odell Beckham Jr. to Ja’Marr Chase, and it looks like Malik Nabers could be the next in line to carry that torch. Nabers has been steadily improving and appears poised to become one of the most explosive and reliable wide receivers in college football.

Why Malik Nabers Could Be a Star

In his first two seasons at LSU, Nabers displayed impressive skills, catching passes from several different quarterbacks. His 2023 season was particularly noteworthy, as he tallied over 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns. His ability to break away from defenders, high-point the football, and track deep passes makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Nabers’ route-running, footwork, and hands are all on the level of an NFL-caliber receiver, and he has developed a strong rapport with Jayden Daniels. The chemistry between the two should only improve heading into the 2025 season, and LSU fans can expect to see even more highlight-reel plays from Nabers. His speed, agility, and physicality make him a top-tier talent in the SEC, and with another year under his belt, he could be one of the most productive wide receivers in all of college football.

As the go-to target for Daniels, Nabers will be the focal point of LSU’s passing attack. With a blend of athleticism, intelligence, and work ethic, Nabers has the potential to develop into one of the nation’s top wideouts and solidify his place as a future first-round NFL draft pick.

3. DE Maason Smith: A Dominant Force on the Defensive Line

LSU’s defense has always been one of the most respected units in the country, and much of that success can be attributed to the incredible talent along the defensive line. Maason Smith, a former five-star recruit, is ready to be the next great defensive lineman for LSU. The 6’5”, 310-pound defensive tackle has the tools to become a force at the next level.

Why Maason Smith Could Be a Star

Smith’s immense talent has already been recognized by college football analysts and NFL scouts. His combination of size, strength, and agility makes him a nightmare for offensive linemen. In his first two seasons at LSU, Smith showcased flashes of brilliance, including a dominant 2022 campaign. His explosiveness off the line and his ability to disrupt the quarterback make him a key piece of LSU’s defensive front.

Injuries have slightly hindered his progress in recent seasons, but with a clean bill of health heading into the 2025 season, Smith could easily return to his elite form. His ability to clog up running lanes, collapse the pocket, and put pressure on quarterbacks makes him a standout player who will have an immediate impact.

As one of the best defensive linemen in the SEC, Smith is primed to be the anchor of LSU’s defense. If he continues to develop, he will be a force to be reckoned with, potentially competing for All-SEC and All-American honors. As one of the top prospects in the country, Smith could be the next LSU defender to be taken in the first round of the NFL Draft.

4. LB Harold Perkins Jr.: A Rising Star at Linebacker

Harold Perkins Jr., a former five-star recruit from the 2023 class, was one of the most highly anticipated players in LSU’s 2023 recruiting class. After a strong debut season, he is already being regarded as one of the most promising young linebackers in college football. Perkins’ ability to play multiple positions on the defensive side of the ball is a testament to his versatility and overall football IQ.

Why Harold Perkins Jr. Could Be a Star

Perkins has the unique ability to play both inside and outside linebacker, giving LSU flexibility in how they use him. His speed and playmaking ability allow him to be an effective pass rusher, as well as a top-notch coverage linebacker. Perkins’ instincts on the field are exceptional, and he has the athleticism to excel in both run defense and pass defense.

In 2023, Perkins recorded over 60 tackles and multiple sacks, establishing himself as one of the top young linebackers in the SEC. With another year of development under his belt, Perkins could become the cornerstone of LSU’s defense in the 2025 season. His ability to make an impact all over the field, from blitzing quarterbacks to dropping into coverage, gives LSU a unique weapon in their defensive arsenal.

Perkins’ high football IQ and leadership qualities also make him a natural leader for LSU’s defense. As he continues to develop, he could emerge as one of the most dominant linebackers in the country and a future first-round NFL pick.

5. CB Zy Alexander: LSU’s Next Shutdown Cornerback

LSU has a rich history of producing elite cornerbacks, and Zy Alexander is poised to join the ranks of players like Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Mathieu. After transferring from Southeastern Louisiana, Alexander has impressed coaches and teammates with his physicality and ability to cover elite receivers.

Why Zy Alexander Could Be a Star

At 6’1” and 190 pounds, Alexander possesses the size and athleticism to compete at the highest level. His quickness, ball skills, and physicality make him a top-tier cornerback in the SEC. As a transfer, Alexander has already made a big impact on LSU’s defense, and with another year of experience in Baton Rouge, he is expected to emerge as one of the top cornerbacks in the country.

With LSU’s track record of producing elite cornerbacks, Alexander has all the tools to follow in the footsteps of NFL stars like Peterson and Mathieu. As the Tigers’ lockdown cornerback, he will be tasked with shutting down opposing wide receivers and making key plays for LSU’s defense.