As of the 2025 NFL Draft, Brian Kelly’s tenure as head coach at LSU has led to a significant number of players being selected in the NFL Draft. Since his arrival in Baton Rouge in 2022, Kelly has helped develop talent that has had a profound impact both at LSU and in the NFL. Below is a breakdown of LSU football players who have been drafted during the Brian Kelly era, as well as a deep dive into how their journeys from Baton Rouge to the NFL unfolded.
1. Overview of Brian Kelly’s Influence on LSU’s NFL Draft Success
When Brian Kelly was hired as LSU’s head coach in December 2021, the LSU Tigers were coming off a tumultuous 2020 season and a disappointing 2021 campaign under Ed Orgeron. However, Kelly’s track record of success at Notre Dame, where he developed numerous players who were drafted into the NFL, signaled that he could elevate LSU’s talent and enhance the program’s visibility in the professional football world. The immediate success in recruiting, player development, and team culture under Kelly helped transform LSU into a title-contending program once again.
Kelly’s first full season at LSU was in 2022, and despite being his first year, he quickly revitalized the Tigers. His recruiting efforts, particularly with top-tier high school talent, and his ability to get the best out of his roster have made LSU an even more attractive option for future NFL prospects.
2. LSU Players Drafted in the Brian Kelly Era (2022-2025)
As of 2025, Brian Kelly has been the head coach for three full seasons, and his coaching staff and player development have yielded several NFL Draft picks. Here’s a look at the key players drafted under Kelly’s watch:
1. Kayshon Boutte – Wide Receiver
- NFL Draft Year: 2023
- Drafted By: New England Patriots (2nd round, 45th overall)
Kayshon Boutte, once one of the most hyped wide receivers in college football, was a key player for LSU in the Brian Kelly era. Boutte entered LSU as a highly touted recruit and flashed immense potential, especially in the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Despite battling injuries during his junior season, Boutte returned to LSU for his senior year under Kelly and showcased enough talent to be selected in the 2023 NFL Draft. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the second round and quickly became a key piece in their rebuilding offense. His combination of size, speed, and route-running ability made him a coveted prospect, and while his career at LSU was somewhat inconsistent due to injury, his upside was undeniable.
2. Jayden Daniels – Quarterback
- NFL Draft Year: 2024
- Drafted By: Arizona Cardinals (1st round, 8th overall)
Jayden Daniels, a former transfer from Arizona State, quickly became one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football under Brian Kelly. In his first season with LSU, Daniels led the team to an SEC Championship Game appearance and significantly raised his NFL draft stock. Daniels showcased his dual-threat ability, with impressive arm strength and the ability to make plays with his legs. His ability to guide LSU’s offense to success and maintain composure in critical moments made him one of the top quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft class. Daniels was selected in the first round by the Arizona Cardinals, where he was expected to be a future franchise quarterback.
3. B.J. Ojulari – Edge Rusher
- NFL Draft Year: 2023
- Drafted By: Arizona Cardinals (1st round, 23rd overall)
B.J. Ojulari was one of the most dominant pass rushers in college football during his time at LSU. A crucial component of the LSU defense during the Kelly era, Ojulari’s speed, explosiveness, and relentless pursuit of the quarterback were key features that helped him stand out. His performance during the 2022 season was a major factor in his draft status. Despite being only a sophomore, Ojulari declared for the NFL Draft and was selected in the first round by the Arizona Cardinals. Ojulari had an immediate impact as a pass rusher in the NFL and has been seen as a future cornerstone of the Cardinals’ defense.
4. Jaquelin Roy – Defensive Tackle
- NFL Draft Year: 2023
- Drafted By: Minnesota Vikings (2nd round, 41st overall)
Jaquelin Roy, a defensive tackle with a high motor and disruptive presence on the interior defensive line, was another LSU player to be drafted during the Kelly era. A staple of LSU’s defense under Kelly, Roy’s physicality and ability to collapse the pocket made him a key player for LSU’s defensive front. His skill set translated well to the NFL, and in 2023, the Minnesota Vikings selected him in the second round. Roy has quickly established himself as a reliable force in the NFL, known for his ability to stop the run and rush the passer from the interior.
5. Ali Gaye – Edge Rusher
- NFL Draft Year: 2023
- Drafted By: Detroit Lions (3rd round, 68th overall)
Ali Gaye, another key figure on LSU’s defense, was an explosive edge rusher who thrived under Brian Kelly’s coaching staff. He was known for his ability to set the edge against the run and provide consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Gaye’s combination of size and athleticism helped him become one of the top pass-rushers in the SEC during his time at LSU. After an impressive senior season, he was selected by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Gaye quickly transitioned into a role with the Lions, where he brought physicality and toughness to their defensive line.
6. John Emery Jr. – Running Back
- NFL Draft Year: 2025
- Drafted By: Miami Dolphins (4th round, 112th overall)
John Emery Jr. was one of the most talented running backs to come through LSU in recent years. Under Brian Kelly, he showed flashes of brilliance as both a rusher and a receiving option out of the backfield. Although his career at LSU had some ups and downs, including issues with eligibility and injuries, Emery had a standout senior season in 2024. His combination of speed, vision, and power as a running back earned him a spot in the 2025 NFL Draft, where he was selected by the Miami Dolphins. He projects as a versatile running back with the potential to contribute as both a rusher and a pass-catcher in the NFL.
3. Players Who Were Key in the Brian Kelly Era but Did Not Get Drafted
While several LSU players were drafted during Brian Kelly’s time, it’s worth noting that some players who were pivotal contributors to the team’s success have not yet been selected in the NFL Draft. Some of these players may still have opportunities to catch on with NFL teams as free agents or on practice squads, while others could have a future in the NFL after continuing their development. Players like linebacker Greg Penn, tight end Mason Taylor, and others may have an NFL career ahead but were not drafted as of 2025.
4. The Impact of Brian Kelly on LSU’s NFL Draft Success
Brian Kelly’s impact on LSU’s NFL Draft success cannot be understated. His system has helped elevate players to their maximum potential, and his ability to develop talent has been crucial for the program. Under Kelly, LSU has become a premier destination for NFL scouts looking for well-coached, talented players capable of making an immediate impact in the league.
Kelly’s emphasis on discipline, football IQ, and player development has led to a more polished product on the field. His ability to balance recruiting with player development means that LSU will continue to be a pipeline to the NFL for years to come. By developing players who are ready to make an impact at the next level, Kelly has ensured that LSU remains one of the top programs for producing NFL talent.
5. Looking Ahead: Future NFL Draft Picks from LSU
The future is bright for LSU’s NFL draft prospects under Brian Kelly. With a strong recruiting class year in and year out, players like defensive back Denver Harris, wide receiver Shelton Sampson Jr., and offensive tackle Zalance Heard are expected to be drafted in the coming years. As Kelly continues to build his program, LSU will likely continue to be a key supplier of talent to the NFL.
The first few years of Brian Kelly’s tenure at LSU have been marked by substantial success both on the field and in the NFL Draft. With players like Jayden Daniels, Kayshon Boutte, and B.J. Ojulari being selected high in the draft, Kelly’s system has clearly helped players develop into top NFL prospects. As LSU’s program continues to grow under Kelly, it is likely that the Tigers will maintain their place among the top schools producing NFL talent.
