Three LSU Stars, Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers, and Brian Thomas Jr., Among AP’s NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Candidates…….
The NFL is full of young talent making waves, but this year, three standout players from LSU have been recognized as some of the top contenders for the Associated Press (AP) Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers, and Brian Thomas Jr., all former LSU Tigers, have caught the attention of the league for their exceptional performances in their inaugural seasons. This recognition highlights not only their individual skill but also the impact LSU’s football program has had on developing future stars in the NFL.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the impressive careers of these three players, their journeys to the NFL, their rookie seasons, and what makes them such strong contenders for this prestigious award. Additionally, we will discuss the significance of LSU’s influence on NFL talent development and the broader implications of their success for the program and future recruits.
Jayden Daniels: From LSU Quarterback to NFL Sensation
A Star in College:
Jayden Daniels’ college career at LSU was nothing short of spectacular. After transferring from Arizona State, Daniels immediately made an impact with the Tigers in his first season, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. Over the course of his tenure, Daniels became known for his dynamic playmaking ability, both through the air and on the ground.
In his senior year at LSU, Daniels’ performance reached new heights. He was widely considered one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in college football. He threw for over 3,700 yards and 40 total touchdowns, leading the Tigers to a strong finish in the SEC. His ability to extend plays with his legs and deliver pinpoint passes made him an exciting prospect for NFL teams.
Transition to the NFL:
After declaring for the NFL Draft, Daniels was selected early in the first round by a team in need of a quarterback who could offer both arm strength and mobility. His selection was seen as a great move for a team looking for a franchise quarterback who could thrive in both the pocket and on the run.
His smooth transition to the NFL surprised many, with Daniels adapting quickly to the pace and intensity of professional football. His maturity and leadership skills, developed over his time at LSU, helped him earn the respect of his teammates and coaching staff. What stood out the most during his rookie season was his composure under pressure and his ability to make plays when the game was on the line.
Rookie Season Breakdown:
As an NFL rookie, Daniels quickly became known for his consistency and poise. With solid protection from his offensive line, Daniels delivered a series of impressive performances that showcased his strong arm and ability to read defenses. His mobility also allowed him to make plays outside the pocket, earning him recognition as one of the most versatile quarterbacks of the 2025 draft class.
Through the first half of the season, Daniels passed for over 2,500 yards, with 15 touchdowns and only five interceptions. His deep ball accuracy has been one of the most talked-about aspects of his game, as he has consistently found his receivers on long passes. His ability to keep defenses on their toes with his legs only made him more dangerous. By midseason, it was clear Daniels was on his way to becoming one of the league’s most promising young quarterbacks.
Looking Ahead:
If Daniels continues to progress at his current pace, he could very well be a frontrunner for AP Offensive Rookie of the Year by the end of the season. His combination of passing accuracy, decision-making, and rushing ability has already made a strong impression, and if he maintains his high level of play, his candidacy for this prestigious award will only grow stronger.
Malik Nabers: A Wide Receiver to Watch
College Stardom:
Malik Nabers is no stranger to the spotlight. As one of the most productive wide receivers in college football during his time at LSU, Nabers quickly became a key playmaker for the Tigers. His speed, precise route running, and reliable hands made him a favorite target for Jayden Daniels. Nabers’ ability to make plays in critical situations helped LSU remain competitive throughout his career.
Nabers finished his college career with over 2,500 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns. His consistency and ability to make spectacular catches earned him a reputation as one of the best wide receivers in college football.
NFL Transition and Early Impressions:
After entering the NFL Draft, Nabers was selected by a team looking to add a dynamic and explosive receiver to its roster. The transition to the NFL was seamless for him, as he quickly adapted to the faster, more physical style of play. His agility, ability to make defenders miss, and route-running precision have made him an immediate threat.
In his rookie season, Nabers was a major factor in the offense, contributing in both the deep passing game and short-yardage situations. His chemistry with the team’s quarterback grew with each game, and Nabers found himself becoming one of the most reliable receivers on the roster. Whether it was catching passes in critical
moments or creating separation with his speed, Nabersdemonstrated his immense potential as an NFL playmaker.
Rookie Season Breakdown:
Throughout his first season, Nabers displayed a high level of consistency. His hands were reliable, and he had a knack for making spectacular catches. He finished the first part of the season with over 50 receptions, 700 yards, and 6 touchdowns. His ability to make plays in the red zone, as well as his effectiveness in the open field, made him a favorite of the coaching staff.
As Nabers continues to build rapport with his quarterback, it’s clear that he has the potential to be one of the NFL’s premier wide receivers. His rookie season is shaping up to be one of the most impressive for a wideout in recent memory, and he remains a strong contender for the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year.
What Sets Nabers Apart:
What makes Nabers particularly unique is his versatility. He is not just a deep threat; he can excel in a variety of situations, from quick screens to contested catches in the end zone. His quick feet and ability to change direction on a dime allow him to get open against some of the league’s top cornerbacks. As the season progresses, Nabers’ role in the offense is expected to expand even further, and his playmaking ability will only continue to grow.
Brian Thomas Jr.: The Underrated Star
College Journey:
Brian Thomas Jr. had a slightly quieter college career than his LSU counterparts, but his performance in his final season made him impossible to ignore. With the ball in his hands, Thomas proved he could be a game-changer. He finished his LSU career with over 1,500 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. His ability to make defenders miss, combined with his physicality and speed, made him one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Thomas’ college career wasn’t filled with as many flashy moments as Nabers, but his steady progression and ability to show up when it mattered made him a top NFL prospect.
Transition to the NFL:
Thomas was drafted by a team with a significant need for a physical receiver capable of making plays across the field. Though many analysts initially overlooked him, Thomas quickly showed that his skill set translated well to the NFL. His physicality at the line of scrimmage, paired with his knack for making contested catches, earned him immediate playing time.
As a rookie, Thomas demonstrated that he could be a reliable target in both the intermediate and deep passing game. His development was rapid, and his performance during key moments proved his potential as a future star in the league.
Rookie Season Breakdown:
In his rookie season, Thomas made an immediate impact, finishing the first half of the season with over 500 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns. His ability to make plays in critical situations, especially in third-and-long situations, made him a trusted option for his quarterback.
What makes Thomas unique is his combination of size and speed. He’s difficult to tackle in the open field, and his strength allows him to fight for extra yards after the catch. As the season continues, Thomas’ role in the offense is expected to expand, and he has the tools to be a dominant player for years to come.
LSU’s Influence on the NFL:
LSU’s football program has long been known for developing high-caliber players, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. From Joe Burrow to Justin Jefferson, the Tigers have produced some of the NFL’s brightest stars. The success of Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers, and Brian Thomas Jr. only strengthens LSU’s reputation as a top-tier program for developing future NFL talent.
The impressive early careers of these three players show that LSU continues to produce players who can thrive at the highest level. Their success serves as a testament to the strength of the Tigers’ football program and its ability to develop top-tier talent for the professional ranks.
Conclusion:
Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers, and Brian Thomas Jr. are not just a product of LSU’s football program—they are future stars in the making. Their impressive performances in their rookie seasons have solidified their spots as top candidates for AP Offensive Rookie of the Year. With each player bringing their unique skills and abilities to the field, they have proven that LSU continues to be a powerhouse in the development of NFL talent.
As the season progresses, it will be exciting to watch how these young players continue to evolve and make their mark on the league. The future looks incredibly bright for LSU and its growing number of NFL stars.
