NFL Honors finalists include former LSU football players.

As the NFL season winds down and the league gears up for its annual NFL Honors ceremony, a number of former LSU football players have earned well-deserved recognition for their outstanding performances during the 2024 season. The NFL Honors event, which takes place the night before the Super Bowl, celebrates the league’s most exceptional players, coaches, and moments from the season. For LSU alumni, this event serves as a testament to the school’s rich tradition of producing top-tier NFL talent.

From MVP candidates to standout rookies, LSU players have been making waves across the league, earning their spots among the finalists for prestigious awards. In this article, we will explore the former LSU Tigers who are in the running for NFL Honors and take a closer look at their impressive performances throughout the season.

1. Joe Burrow – MVP Finalist

One of the most high-profile former LSU players up for a major award is quarterback Joe Burrow. After leading LSU to a national championship in 2019 with one of the most remarkable college football seasons ever, Burrow’s transition to the NFL has been nothing short of stellar. Burrow has already made a name for himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, and his performance in the 2024 season only solidified that reputation.

As a finalist for the NFL MVP, Burrow had an outstanding year, guiding the Cincinnati Bengals to a 13-4 record and a deep playoff run. Over the course of the season, Burrow threw for over 4,800 yards, with 38 touchdowns and only 8 interceptions, showcasing his accuracy, poise under pressure, and ability to lead a high-powered offense. Burrow’s connection with star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, another former LSU player, continued to be a defining feature of the Bengals’ offense, as the two former college teammates put together one of the most dynamic quarterback-receiver duos in the NFL.

Burrow’s ability to perform in clutch situations was a key factor in his MVP candidacy. Whether leading his team to game-winning drives or picking apart tough defenses, Burrow’s calm demeanor and precise play made him one of the top contenders for the award. For Burrow, this marks another milestone in what is shaping up to be a Hall of Fame-caliber career. His success in Cincinnati has cemented his status as one of the league’s premier quarterbacks.

“Joe Burrow’s ability to elevate the Bengals from a mediocre franchise to a legitimate Super Bowl contender is remarkable,” said an NFL analyst. “He’s not just putting up impressive stats; he’s winning big games and proving that he’s one of the top quarterbacks in the league.”

As Burrow continues to excel at the highest level, his impact on the NFL and the LSU football program is undeniable. A potential MVP award would further solidify his legacy as one of the best to ever come from LSU.

2. Justin Jefferson – Offensive Player of the Year Finalist

Another LSU alum who is a finalist for a prestigious award is Justin Jefferson, the explosive wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings. After making an immediate impact in the NFL as a rookie, Jefferson’s star has continued to rise, and the 2024 season was no exception. His performance this year earned him a spot as a finalist for Offensive Player of the Year, one of the NFL’s most coveted individual honors.

Jefferson was a dominant force for the Vikings, finishing the season with 1,590 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. His ability to make spectacular catches, gain separation from defenders, and create big plays was a critical factor in the Vikings’ offense, which ranked among the top units in the NFL. Jefferson’s route running, hands, and vision after the catch make him one of the most complete receivers in the game today.

In addition to his impressive statistical output, Jefferson’s consistency was a key factor in his candidacy for Offensive Player of the Year. Despite facing top cornerbacks week in and week out, he was able to consistently perform at an elite level, making difficult catches and helping Minnesota stay competitive in a highly competitive NFC North division. His connection with quarterback Kirk Cousins has been one of the most productive in the NFL.

“Justin Jefferson is without question one of the best receivers in the league,” said a scout. “His ability to take over a game with his playmaking ability is unmatched. He has all the tools to be one of the best in NFL history.”

Jefferson’s performance in the 2024 season has further cemented his place among the NFL’s elite receivers. If he were to win the Offensive Player of the Year award, it would add another accolade to his already impressive resume.

3. Ja’Marr Chase – Offensive Rookie of the Year Finalist

A former LSU teammate of Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase had an electrifying rookie season in the NFL in 2021. The wide receiver quickly became a superstar for the Cincinnati Bengals, and his sophomore year was equally impressive. In 2024, Chase continued to dominate defenses, earning him a spot as a finalist for Offensive Player of the Year.

Chase’s numbers were remarkable once again in 2024. He finished with 1,440 yards and 11 touchdowns, helping the Bengals maintain one of the most potent passing attacks in the league. His ability to stretch the field, make contested catches, and create yards after the catch was on full display throughout the season. Despite battling occasional injuries, Chase’s talent shone through, and he developed a deeper rapport with Joe Burrow, further solidifying their status as one of the top quarterback-receiver tandems in the league.

“Ja’Marr Chase is a freak of nature,” an NFL coach said. “He has all the physical traits—speed, size, strength—that you can’t teach. And his chemistry with Joe Burrow is only getting better. The two of them are a nightmare for defenses.”

As a finalist for Offensive Player of the Year, Chase is clearly one of the rising stars of the NFL, and he has a bright future ahead of him. His potential to dominate for years to come makes him one of the most exciting players to watch in the league.

4. Derrick Stingley Jr. – Defensive Rookie of the Year Finalist

A name that has been generating buzz among NFL circles is Derrick Stingley Jr., the highly regarded cornerback who was drafted third overall by the Houston Texans in the 2022 NFL Draft. After a strong rookie campaign, Stingley made a massive leap in his second year, earning a spot as a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year in 2024.

Stingley’s season was a testament to his skill, poise, and playmaking ability. He finished the season with 4 interceptions, 15 pass deflections, and a sack, helping transform the Texans’ defense into one of the league’s most formidable units. Stingley’s ability to lock down top receivers, as well as his knack for making key plays in big moments, has made him a favorite among NFL observers.

“Stingley is one of the most technically sound corners in the NFL,” said a defensive coordinator. “He has the ability to shut down top receivers, and he can be a game-changer when the ball is in the air.”

After a dominant college career at LSU, Stingley’s success in the NFL was expected, but his ability to adjust to the professional game and perform at such a high level so quickly has exceeded expectations. His rise to the Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist list is just the beginning of what promises to be a long and successful NFL career.

5. Patrick Queen – Defensive Player of the Year Finalist

Another former LSU player who has made an impact at the professional level is linebacker Patrick Queen of the Baltimore Ravens. Queen, who was drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has consistently been one of the most dynamic linebackers in the league, and his 2024 season earned him recognition as a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year.

Queen had an outstanding season, recording 122 tackles, 4 sacks, and 2 interceptions. His sideline-to-sideline range, ability to read plays, and leadership on defense were integral to the Ravens’ defensive success. Queen has developed into one of the league’s top linebackers, known for his ability to play both the run and the pass effectively.

“Patrick Queen is a complete linebacker,” said an NFL scout. “He’s fast, strong, and smart. He’s a guy who can cover ground quickly and make plays in all phases of the game.”

Queen’s performance in 2024 has made him a key player for the Ravens, and his potential to win Defensive Player of the Year underscores his impact on the league. If Queen continues to play at this level, he could establish himself as one of the top linebackers in the NFL for years to come.

6. Tre’Davious White – Comeback Player of the Year Finalist

Finally, Tre’Davious White, the shutdown cornerback for the Buffalo Bills, is a finalist for Comeback Player of the Year after an inspiring return from an ACL injury that kept him out for much of the 2023 season. White’s performance in 2024 was a testament to his resilience and ability to return to form after a significant injury.

White’s return to elite play was pivotal for the Bills’ defense, as he recorded 3 interceptions and 12 pass deflections. His ability to lock down opposing receivers and contribute in key moments helped Buffalo secure a playoff berth. His return to the field after such a major injury is a remarkable achievement.

“Tre’Davious White is back to being one of the top corners in the NFL,” said a league analyst. “To come back from an injury like that and perform at such a high level is a credit to his work ethic and determination.”

White’s comeback season earned him a well-deserved spot as a finalist for Comeback Player of the Year, and his impact on the Bills’ defense is undeniable.