The 2025 NFL Draft showed Brian Kelly’s biggest impact on the LSU Football program

The 2025 NFL Draft marked a pivotal moment for the LSU football program under the leadership of head coach Brian Kelly. Since his arrival in Baton Rouge in 2022, Kelly has worked tirelessly to restore LSU’s status as a premier program in college football. His work has been evident both on the field and in the talent he’s helped develop, which was on full display during the 2025 NFL Draft. LSU, a program historically known for churning out NFL talent, saw several of its players taken in the draft, showcasing Brian Kelly’s growing influence on the team’s success. As a result, the 2025 draft class provided a clear example of Kelly’s ability to develop and prepare his players for the next level.

This year’s draft demonstrated how Kelly’s system and his recruitment strategies were beginning to pay off, signaling that his impact on LSU’s program could be felt for years to come. The 2025 NFL Draft provided tangible evidence that Kelly’s approach—focusing on building a disciplined, competitive, and well-coached team—was not only producing NFL-caliber talent but also helping to restore LSU’s reputation as a breeding ground for future professionals.

Brian Kelly’s Arrival at LSU: A Turning Point

When Brian Kelly was hired as LSU’s head coach in 2022, it marked the beginning of a new era for the program. Kelly, a highly successful coach with a proven track record at Notre Dame, inherited a program that had seen its share of ups and downs. After winning the national championship in 2019 under Ed Orgeron, LSU had experienced a dip in performance, particularly in terms of player development and consistency. Kelly was tasked with restoring the program’s identity and returning LSU to the top of the college football world.

His approach to rebuilding LSU was grounded in discipline, structure, and a focus on fundamentals. Kelly brought with him a reputation for developing talent and preparing players for the professional ranks. This focus on player development is one of the reasons why the 2025 NFL Draft was so significant for the program. Kelly’s influence on LSU was clear as the Tigers saw several players—across multiple positions—taken in the draft, a reflection of both his coaching acumen and recruiting prowess.

LSU’s Strong Showing in the 2025 NFL Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft was an important moment for LSU, not only because of the quality of players selected but because of the variety of positions and roles that were represented. From defensive standouts to offensive playmakers, LSU’s draft class was diverse, showcasing the depth of talent that Kelly had helped develop during his tenure.

Defensive Standouts: A Tradition of Dominance

Under Brian Kelly, LSU has quickly returned to its roots as a defensive powerhouse. The Tigers have long been known for producing elite defensive talent, and the 2025 NFL Draft was no different. Several defensive players from LSU were selected in the draft, further solidifying Kelly’s ability to develop top-tier defensive players.

One of the most notable names was cornerback Eli Ricks, who was selected in the first round. Ricks’ selection was a testament to the work Kelly had done with him and the entire secondary. Ricks, who transferred from Alabama to LSU, flourished under Kelly’s tutelage. His ability to shut down top receivers and his ball-hawking skills made him one of the top cornerbacks in the draft class. Ricks’ success was indicative of Kelly’s ability to blend experience with young talent, creating a defense that was feared by opponents throughout the SEC.

Another defensive player who stood out in the draft was linebacker Greg Penn III. Penn was a key figure in LSU’s defense during the 2024 season and showcased his elite skills at the linebacker position during the draft process. His selection in the second round was a direct result of the coaching and development he received under Kelly. Penn’s blend of athleticism, football IQ, and leadership made him an ideal fit for the NFL, and his selection in the early rounds of the draft was further proof of Kelly’s impact on player development.

The overall performance of LSU’s defense in the draft also highlighted Kelly’s ability to build a unit that is both fundamentally sound and capable of competing at the highest level. His emphasis on creating a disciplined defense, where every player understands their role and executes at a high level, has been critical to LSU’s success in the draft. Under Kelly, LSU’s defense has become a model of consistency, producing players who are ready for the rigors of professional football.

Offensive Players: A Growing Reputation for Development

While LSU has always been known for its defense, Brian Kelly’s influence on the offensive side of the ball is also beginning to take shape. In the 2025 NFL Draft, LSU saw a number of offensive players selected, marking an important shift for the program. Under Kelly’s leadership, LSU has become a more balanced team, capable of producing high-level offensive talent alongside its traditionally strong defense.

Quarterback Jayden Daniels, who enjoyed a standout season in 2024, was one of the key players selected in the draft. Daniels, a dual-threat quarterback who showcased his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, was picked in the second round of the 2025 draft. His development under Kelly’s system was evident in his ability to read defenses, make accurate throws, and lead LSU to a successful season. Daniels’ success is a direct result of Kelly’s coaching and his ability to build an offense that maximizes the strengths of his players.

Running back Josh Williams was another offensive player selected in the draft, with his work ethic and toughness standing out to NFL scouts. Williams’ ability to run between the tackles and pick up tough yards in critical moments was on full display during his time at LSU. His selection in the fifth round was a reflection of his solid, well-rounded skill set, and it was clear that his development under Kelly had prepared him for the next level.

Wide receiver Malik Nabers, who also had an impressive 2024 season, was taken in the third round of the draft. Nabers was known for his ability to make contested catches and his speed after the catch, and his selection showed that Kelly’s offensive system was capable of producing dynamic playmakers on the perimeter. Nabers’ route running and ability to create separation were major factors in his success, and the work that Kelly did with him to refine his skills helped him earn a place in the draft.

These offensive selections in the 2025 NFL Draft highlighted the versatility and balance of Kelly’s coaching system. While LSU has always been known for its defense, Kelly’s offensive philosophy is taking shape, with a growing reputation for developing quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers who can succeed at the highest level.

The Recruiting Impact: A Blueprint for Future Success

One of the most significant aspects of Brian Kelly’s impact on LSU’s football program is his ability to recruit and develop talent. The 2025 NFL Draft was a clear indication that Kelly’s recruiting efforts have already begun to pay dividends. The players selected in the draft were not only a product of Kelly’s coaching but also a result of his ability to bring in top-tier recruits.

Kelly has been able to attract some of the best players in the country to Baton Rouge, and that trend is expected to continue. With the 2025 draft serving as a showcase for the talent that Kelly has recruited and developed, LSU’s reputation as a destination for top football prospects is only going to grow.

In addition to securing elite talent from across the country, Kelly has also done an excellent job of developing homegrown players in Louisiana. The state of Louisiana has long been a hotbed for football talent, and Kelly has capitalized on that, ensuring that LSU remains the program of choice for top local recruits. His emphasis on building relationships with high school coaches and players has allowed him to continue LSU’s tradition of securing some of the best talent in the SEC.

The 2025 NFL Draft was a defining moment in Brian Kelly’s tenure as head coach of LSU. His ability to develop players on both sides of the ball and his growing influence on recruiting have set LSU up for sustained success. The draft class showcased the fruits of Kelly’s labor, with multiple players selected and many more expected to follow in the coming years.

Kelly’s work at LSU is just beginning, but the 2025 NFL Draft provided tangible evidence of the impact he has already had on the program. His emphasis on player development, discipline, and creating a well-rounded team has laid a strong foundation for LSU’s future success. As the Tigers continue to compete at the highest level, Kelly’s legacy as a transformative coach at LSU will be solidified by the players he has helped shape and develop into NFL-caliber talent.

As LSU moves forward under Kelly’s leadership, the program is poised for continued success, both on the field and in the NFL Draft. The Tigers’ resurgence as a powerhouse in college football is a testament to Kelly’s ability to recruit, develop, and prepare players for the next level, ensuring that LSU remains a force in the SEC and beyond for years to come.