LSU football takes a hit with surprising announcement

LSU's Kayshon Boutte has reversed his decision and declared for the 2023 NFL Draft after he initially decided to return for another year of college football.

By Paris McGee Jr.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana - After LSU's Kayshon Boutte initially decided to return for another year of college football, the wide receiver has since reversed course and declared for the 2023 NFL Draft.

After initially deciding to return for another year of college football, LSU receiver Kayshon Boutte has now declared for the 2023 NFL Draft.
After initially deciding to return for another year of college football, LSU receiver Kayshon Boutte has now declared for the 2023 NFL Draft.  © Todd Kirkland / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

When Boutte first announced that he would return for another year of football at LSU in early December, it appeared to be the best decision for the talented receiver.

After a season when Boutte's athleticism did not match his production on the field, it made sense for him to return and potentially compete for a national championship while improving his draft potential.

However, it now looks like the Tigers' receiver is going pro after all.

Boutte announced the surprising news on Twitter: "After careful thoughts and consideration, I will be declaring for the 2023 NFL DRAFT."

The announcement came one day after first-year head coach Brian Kelly suddenly revealed that Boutte would be unavailable for LSU's bowl game against Purdue, though he will still be enrolled at the university for the spring semester.

While many college football fans alluded to possible academic issues as a reason for a bowl game absence, it is now clear that the 20-year-old is opting out of the bowl game to prepare for the NFL Draft.

"We support Kayshon and his decision," Kelly said in a statement. "He went through a thoughtful process and ultimately decided this was in his best interest. We appreciate all he did during his time at LSU and wish him well."

What does the receiver room look like without Kayshon Boutte?

LSU true sophomore Malik Nabers will become a top receiver for the Tigers heading into the Citrus Bowl against Purdue.
LSU true sophomore Malik Nabers will become a top receiver for the Tigers heading into the Citrus Bowl against Purdue.  © KEVIN C. COX / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

Boutte returning to LSU football for the 2023 season always felt a bit too good to be true!

The junior is considered to be a top receiver prospect despite having a rough year on the field.

In addition to losing Boutte, the Tigers will also lose heavy-hitters Jack Beck to the transfer portal, and Jaray Jenkins to the NFL Draft.

Now, it seems LSU will rely heavily on leading receiver Malik Nabers. The wideout had a breakout campaign as a true sophomore.

Nabers will be expected to carry much of the load in LSU's Citrus Bowl showdown against Purdue.

This season, he finished with 63 catches for 854 yards and two touchdowns, and should be quarterback Jayden Daniels’ favorite target once more!

LSU will take on Purdue in the Citrus Bowl on January 2 at 1PM EST on ABC.

Cover photo: KEVIN C. COX / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

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