Following the conclusion of their impressive college careers at the Reliaquest Bowl on New Year’s Day, Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas departed LSU, leaving the team to contemplate the future of their wide receiver corps heading into 2024.
During the bowl game against Wisconsin, quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, stepping in for Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, had the opportunity to connect with both Nabers and Thomas. The duo, destined for potential NFL first-round selections, showcased their talents on the big stage, but it was also a glimpse into what the Tigers could expect in the upcoming season.
Amidst the departure of Nabers and Thomas, LSU saw fifth-year senior Kyren Lacy and redshirt junior Chris Hilton step up in their roles. In the pivotal 35-31 victory over Wisconsin, Lacy and Hilton emerged as productive contributors. Hilton, with three receptions totaling 56 yards including a game-tying touchdown in the fourth quarter, and Lacy, who recorded a career-high six catches for 95 yards, demonstrated their capability to fill the void left by their predecessors.
These performances during the bowl game solidified Lacy and Hilton as leading candidates to become primary targets for Nussmeier in the upcoming season. Their strong showings in the subsequent spring practices earned them praise from head coach Brian Kelly, particularly highlighting Lacy’s potential for a breakout season.
Looking ahead to the preseason camp commencing on August 1st, Lacy and Hilton will face competition for their starting positions. Despite the challenges posed by Nabers and Thomas’s departure, the LSU coaching staff under new co-offensive coordinators Joe Sloan and Cortez Hankton remains optimistic about the depth and versatility within the wide receiver group.
Kelly emphasized the team’s strategy to distribute offensive responsibilities among multiple players rather than relying solely on a couple of key receivers. Alongside Lacy and Hilton, the Tigers will look to Mississippi State transfer Zavion Thomas and Liberty transfer CJ Daniels, both bringing significant experience and skill to the table, to contribute to the team’s offensive strategy.
The departure of Nabers and Thomas, who collectively accounted for a substantial portion of LSU’s receiving yards and touchdowns, raises questions about how the team plans to replace their production. Kelly acknowledged the challenge during SEC media days, highlighting the need for a collective effort from multiple players to step up and fill the void left by the departed stars.
While Lacy and Hilton showcased their ability to stretch the field and make crucial receptions last season, the addition of Thomas and Daniels further enhances the team’s depth and versatility in the wide receiver position. Both transfers bring proven track records of production from their previous teams, adding to the competition and potential options available to Nussmeier in the passing game.
As LSU prepares for the upcoming season, the emphasis will be on maximizing the strengths of their wide receiver corps while integrating new talent and refining offensive strategies. The Tigers’ ability to adapt and capitalize on the depth within their roster will be crucial as they strive to maintain their competitive edge in the SEC and beyond.
In summary, while the departure of Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas leaves a significant void in LSU’s wide receiver lineup, the emergence of Kyren Lacy and Chris Hilton, alongside the addition of talented transfers, provides optimism for the team’s offensive capabilities in the upcoming season. The competition and depth within the wide receiver group reflect the Tigers’ commitment to sustaining a high level of performance and competitiveness in collegiate football.