LSU’s focus for the 2024 season has centered largely on Garrett Nussmeier, their new starting quarterback. However, an equally pressing concern revolves around identifying his receiving targets.
The Tigers faced a significant setback with the departure of their top two receivers from last season, Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. Replacing their production, among the best in the nation, poses a daunting challenge.
Kyren Lacy emerges as the primary candidate to step up, entering his fifth collegiate season after a solid 2023 despite fewer opportunities compared to Nabers and Thomas.
Coach Brian Kelly emphasized the collective effort needed from the receiving corps, stating, “I don’t think you look towards one player.” He highlighted Lacy as a key contributor but stressed the potential impact of six to eight other receivers.
Kelly also spotlighted Chris Hilton Jr., noting his breakout potential, alongside optimism about newcomers CJ Daniels, a 1,000-yard receiver at Liberty last season, and Zavion Thomas, who excelled at Mississippi State and as a return specialist.
Speaking on the depth and versatility of the receiving unit, Kelly expressed confidence in their speed, ability to track the ball, and depth across different receiver positions.
While Nussmeier’s talent and strategic processing skills are promising, Kelly underscored the importance of having dynamic playmakers in the passing game, an area where he believes LSU has built depth and potential to compensate for lost production.