Jayden Daniels: Commanding the Field
Selected second overall by the Washington Commanders in the 2024 NFL Draft, Jayden Daniels has had a historic rookie season. Starting all 17 games, he completed 331 of 480 passes, amassing 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns. Daniels also showcased his dual-threat capabilities by rushing for 891 yards and six touchdowns, setting a new NFL record for rookie quarterback rushing yards. His completion rate of 69% is the highest ever recorded by a qualified rookie quarterback. These stellar performances earned him the Pro Football Writers of America’s Rookie of the Year and Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.
Malik Nabers: A Giant Impact
Drafted sixth overall by the New York Giants, Malik Nabers made an immediate impact despite missing two games. He recorded 109 receptions for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns over 15 games. His 109 catches are the second-most by a rookie in NFL history, highlighting his consistent reliability and playmaking ability.
Brian Thomas Jr.: A Jaguar’s Roar
Selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars, Brian Thomas Jr. emerged as a dynamic offensive threat. He secured 87 receptions for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns, ranking third among rookies in receiving yards and first in touchdown receptions. Thomas became only the fourth rookie in the Super Bowl era to achieve over 1,100 receiving yards and 10 touchdown receptions, underscoring his exceptional talent and immediate contribution to the Jaguars’ offense.
LSU’s Legacy in the NFL
The simultaneous emergence of Daniels, Nabers, and Thomas as Offensive Rookie of the Year finalists is a testament to LSU’s football program’s excellence. Their success follows in the footsteps of other LSU alumni, such as Ja’Marr Chase, who was named the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2022.
This trio’s outstanding rookie campaigns not only highlight their individual talents but also reflect the high level of preparation and skill development fostered at LSU. As they continue to excel in their professional careers, Daniels, Nabers, and Thomas are poised to inspire future generations of LSU athletes and leave a lasting legacy in the NFL.
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