“Five Former LSU Tigers Nominated for Four Prestigious NFL End-of-Year Awards”

The LSU Tigers have a storied history of producing NFL talent, and the 2024 season was no exception. Five former LSU players are finalists for four prestigious NFL end-of-year awards, underscoring the program’s impact on professional football.

Jayden Daniels – Offensive Rookie of the Year

Selected second overall by the Washington Commanders in the 2024 NFL Draft, quarterback Jayden Daniels delivered an exceptional rookie season. Starting all 17 games, Daniels completed 69% of his passes for 3,568 yards, throwing 25 touchdowns against nine interceptions. His dual-threat capability was evident as he added 891 rushing yards and six touchdowns on the ground. Daniels’ leadership propelled the Commanders to a 12-5 record and their first NFC Championship appearance since 1991. His outstanding performance has made him a strong contender for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

Malik Nabers – Offensive Rookie of the Year

Wide receiver Malik Nabers, drafted sixth overall by the New York Giants, made an immediate impact in his debut season. In 15 games, Nabers set a new rookie record with 109 receptions, surpassing the previous mark of 105. He amassed 1,204 receiving yards and scored seven touchdowns, becoming the focal point of the Giants’ offense. His consistent performance throughout the season has earned him a spot among the finalists for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Brian Thomas Jr. – Offensive Rookie of the Year

Selected 23rd overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars, wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. showcased his talent by recording 87 receptions for 1,282 yards and ten touchdowns. Despite the Jaguars’ overall struggles, Thomas emerged as a reliable target and one of the bright spots in their offense. His impressive statistics have placed him alongside fellow LSU alumni Daniels and Nabers as a finalist for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Joe Burrow – Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year

Quarterback Joe Burrow, in his fifth NFL season with the Cincinnati Bengals, delivered career-best performances. Completing 70.6% of his 652 pass attempts, Burrow threw for 4,918 yards, achieving a career-high 43 touchdown passes against nine interceptions. His remarkable season has earned him finalist positions for both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Offensive Player of the Year awards. Burrow’s leadership and on-field excellence continue to solidify his status as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks.

Ja’Marr Chase – Offensive Player of the Year

Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase had a historic 2024 season with the Cincinnati Bengals, setting franchise records with 127 receptions and 1,708 receiving yards. He also tied the team’s single-season touchdown record with 17. Chase became the first player in NFL history to achieve a season with 1,700 yards and 17 touchdowns, leading the league in receptions, yards, and touchdowns to secure the NFL receiving triple crown. His extraordinary achievements have made him a finalist for the Offensive Player of the Year award.

Joe Brady – Assistant Coach of the Year

Former LSU Passing Game Coordinator Joe Brady, now the Offensive Coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, played a pivotal role in the team’s offensive success. Under his guidance, quarterback Josh Allen delivered his best touchdown-to-interception ratio season, leading the Bills to the AFC Championship. Brady’s innovative strategies and effective leadership have earned him a finalist spot for the Assistant Coach of the Year award.

The recognition of these former LSU Tigers as finalists for major NFL awards highlights the university’s significant contribution to professional football. Their achievements serve as a testament to the quality of talent developed in Baton Rouge and the enduring legacy of LSU football in the NFL.