LSU football coach Brian Kelly is speaking out for the first time after the death of player Kyren Lacy.

On a somber morning in mid-April 2025, the LSU football community was rocked by the devastating news of the tragic passing of wide receiver Kyren Lacy at just 24 years old. The sudden loss of one of the team’s brightest young stars sent shockwaves through the LSU family, leaving fans, teammates, coaches, and friends in mourning. As the university continues to grapple with this heartbreaking event, LSU head football coach Brian Kelly has spoken out publicly for the first time, expressing his deep sorrow and offering support to Lacy’s grieving family and teammates.

In his first public remarks, Coach Kelly, who has led the Tigers since 2022, described Lacy’s death as a devastating blow to both the LSU football program and the entire university community. “It’s hard to put into words the pain we’re feeling right now,” Kelly said in his statement, his voice cracking with emotion. “Kyren was not only a great player, but he was an even better person. His spirit, his work ethic, and his kindness made an indelible impact on everyone around him. This is a tragic loss, and we are all heartbroken.”

Kyren Lacy: A Star on the Rise

Kyren Lacy’s journey to LSU was one filled with promise. A standout athlete from Thibodaux, Louisiana, Lacy had been a star in his high school football program, where he quickly earned a reputation for his explosive speed, strong hands, and ability to make game-changing plays. His college recruitment was hotly contested, but Lacy ultimately chose LSU, knowing that the Tigers provided an ideal platform to showcase his abilities on a national stage.

During his time at LSU, Lacy proved that his high school success was no fluke. As a wide receiver for the Tigers, he quickly made a name for himself with his ability to make big plays, especially in clutch moments. His combination of size, speed, and football IQ made him one of the most dangerous threats on the field. Over the course of his college career, Lacy emerged as one of the most reliable receivers in LSU’s offense, consistently contributing both as a pass-catcher and a leader in the locker room.

Lacy’s talent, however, was matched by his character. Coaches, teammates, and staff alike have praised his work ethic, dedication to the team, and positive attitude. He was known for going above and beyond to support his fellow athletes and to mentor younger players. Lacy’s passion for the game was contagious, and it was clear to everyone around him that he had the potential for greatness both on and off the field.

The announcement of his passing left a profound void in the LSU community. Fans and players alike mourned the loss of a player who had given so much to the program. But it was his family, teammates, and coaches who felt the deepest sorrow. Coach Kelly, who had come to know Lacy over the course of his tenure at LSU, spoke to the tight-knit bond that the team had formed, acknowledging that the loss felt by the program was akin to the loss of a family member.

Coach Kelly’s Statement: A Heartfelt Expression of Grief

In his official statement, Brian Kelly spoke candidly about the personal grief he felt over Lacy’s death, describing it as a reminder of the fragility of life and the impact that athletes like Kyren have on those around them. “Kyren was one of the most genuine, selfless young men I’ve had the honor of coaching,” Kelly remarked. “His passion for football was matched only by his love for his family, his teammates, and this university. He had a way of making everyone around him better. He was an inspiration to all of us, and his loss leaves a hole that will never be filled.”

Coach Kelly went on to express his deepest condolences to Lacy’s family, a sentiment that resonated with the entire LSU football program. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Kyren’s family during this incredibly difficult time,” Kelly said. “We know that the pain they are feeling is unimaginable, and we stand with them in their grief. We are committed to supporting them in every way possible, and our LSU family will be here for them as they navigate through this tragic loss.”

Kelly also acknowledged the profound effect that Lacy’s passing has had on his teammates. “The impact Kyren had on his teammates was immeasurable,” Kelly explained. “He was more than just a player—he was a brother, a mentor, and a friend. The bond that he shared with his teammates will never be broken. I know that his spirit will continue to live on in all of us, and his legacy will never be forgotten.”

The Role of Mental Health and Team Support

The unexpected death of Kyren Lacy has sparked renewed conversations around mental health, particularly in the high-pressure environment of college athletics. While Lacy was known for his cheerful and positive demeanor, it is important to acknowledge the challenges that many student-athletes face, often without the support and resources they need to navigate the emotional and mental toll of their rigorous schedules.

Coach Kelly has been a strong advocate for mental health resources within the LSU football program. In his statement, he emphasized the importance of providing athletes with the necessary support to deal with the stress, anxiety, and emotional strain that come with being a high-profile college athlete.

“We must continue to focus on the well-being of our student-athletes, both mentally and physically,” Kelly said. “This is a tragic reminder of the pressures that these young men and women face every day. Our staff is committed to ensuring that all of our players have the resources they need to succeed—not just on the field, but in life. We want to make sure they feel supported, valued, and heard.”

Kelly’s commitment to mental health is evident in the steps LSU has taken in recent years to improve the resources available to student-athletes. The university has invested in expanding its mental health services, providing athletes with access to counseling, stress management programs, and peer support networks. However, the loss of Kyren Lacy has highlighted the ongoing need for more resources, and Coach Kelly has vowed to continue pushing for improvements in this area.

Teammates and Coaches Reflect on Kyren’s Legacy

While Coach Kelly’s comments have been a source of comfort and strength to those grieving, it is clear that Lacy’s teammates and fellow coaches are also deeply affected by his loss. Wide receiver Malik Nabers, who played alongside Lacy for several seasons, spoke publicly about his bond with the late athlete, offering a glimpse into the kind of person Kyren Lacy was.

“Kyren was my brother,” Nabers said in an emotional tribute. “We spent so much time together, both on and off the field. He always had my back, and I had his. He was a great teammate, a great friend, and a great person. I miss him already, and I’ll carry his memory with me every time I step onto the field.”

Assistant coach Mickey Joseph, who worked closely with Lacy as part of the wide receivers coaching staff, also spoke about Lacy’s impact on the team. “Kyren was a special player,” Joseph said. “His ability to elevate those around him was unmatched. He was a leader by example, and he had an innate ability to bring people together. It’s a huge loss for the program, but we will honor his memory by continuing to work hard and represent the values he stood for.”

LSU’s entire football program is determined to honor Lacy’s legacy in the months and years to come. While the pain of his loss is still fresh, there is a collective resolve to carry forward the lessons he taught through his work ethic, leadership, and kindness.

Honoring Kyren Lacy’s Memory

As LSU moves forward from this tragic event, the university has begun to explore ways to honor Kyren Lacy’s memory. Discussions are underway regarding potential tributes, which could include a memorial service, a scholarship in Lacy’s name, or other forms of recognition that reflect his contributions to LSU football.

The LSU football program also plans to honor Lacy throughout the upcoming season, with players and coaches wearing commemorative patches or engaging in other tributes during games. Coach Kelly has made it clear that Lacy’s legacy will be integral to the team’s identity moving forward.

“We will find ways to keep Kyren’s spirit alive,” Kelly said. “He will always be a part of LSU football, and his legacy will continue to inspire us every day. We will play for him, and we will make him proud.”

A Community United in Grief and Strength

In the days following Kyren Lacy’s death, the LSU community has come together in a remarkable show of support. Fans, alumni, former players, and members of the Baton Rouge community have expressed their condolences and offered their support to Lacy’s family and the LSU football program. Memorials, messages of support, and tributes have poured in from all corners of the LSU family, reminding everyone that they are united in grief, but also in strength.

As Coach Brian Kelly has eloquently stated, the LSU football team will not only mourn the loss of Kyren Lacy but will also strive to honor his memory and carry his legacy forward. “We are a family,” Kelly said. “And in times like this, our family comes together to support one another. We will continue to stand strong, just as Kyren would have wanted us to.”