Dec 3, 2022; Atlanta, GA, USA; LSU Tigers wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (7) carries the ball for a receiving touchdown against the Georgia Bulldogs during the first quarter of the SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Star WR Kayshon Boutte passing over draft, returning to LSU

LSU wide receiver Kayshon Boutte is putting his pro aspirations on hold and returning for another season of college football.

Boutte was considered among the best receivers eligible for next April’s NFL draft.

Boutte made the announcement in a social media post Monday evening.

“The goal is always to win a national championship at LSU and that will never change,” Boutte wrote. “We made strides this year but ultimately fell short. That is why I believe we can accomplish many things moving forward. I believe in this team, coaches, strength staff, nutrition staff and training staff.

“It is important to follow your dreams and live with the results. While some stories will end here, mine will not.”

Boutte caught five touchdowns as a freshman in 2020 and grabbed nine in just six games in 2021. His numbers leveled out a bit this season, when he grabbed 48 receptions for 538 yards and two touchdowns.

In three collegiate seasons, Boutte has 131 catches for 1,782 yards and 16 touchdowns in 37 games.

No. 17 LSU (9-4, 6-2 SEC) won the SEC West and lost to No. 1 Georgia in the conference title game in its first season under coach Brian Kelly. The Tigers are scheduled to play in the Citrus Bowl on Jan. 2 against Purdue.

–Field Level Media

Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Will Anderson Jr. (31) celebrates after a defensive stop on fourth down in the second half the NCAA Playoff Semifinal at the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Alabama Crimson Tide defeated Cincinnati Bearcats 27-6.

Cotton Bowl Cincinnati Bearcats Alabama Crimson Tide Ac 428

2023 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch

The 2022 NFL Draft contained unique depth in the late rounds due to players taking advantage of COVID eligibility, but it lacked truly elite prospects at the top of the draft.

The 2023 prospect pool looks similarly strong in the late rounds, but seems more well-rounded at the top. It’s headlined by two star defenders and a potential franchise quarterback.

Here’s a closer look:

10. TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame: One of the most productive receiving tight ends in college over the last two years, Mayer has excellent size and athleticism for the role.

9. OLB Nolan Smith, Georgia: An exodus to the NFL will weaken Georgia’s defense next year, but Smith will be a pillar as he works to cement himself as a first rounder.

8. QB C.J. Stroud, Ohio State: Stroud’s accuracy needs improvement, but he is strong-armed and productive with great upside as a passer.

7. LB Henry To’oTo’o, Alabama: Rangy and nimble with great instincts, To’oTo’o has the type of athletic profile and football intelligence to be the first linebacker picked.

6. CB Joey Porter Jr., Penn State: The son of former Steeler Joey Porter, the younger Porter has the explosiveness and ball skills to be a lockdown corner in the NFL.

5. OLB Isaiah Foskey, Notre Dame: A gifted hybrid pass-rusher who can rush as a defensive end or drop into coverage as a linebacker. Foskey’s versatility will intrigue teams.

4. WR Kayshon Boutte, LSU: Boutte has some injury questions, but his elite fluidity of movement and slick routes will be eye catching for scouts.

3. QB Bryce Young, Alabama: Undersized but remarkably accurate with a lightning quick release. Young’s precision and off-script ability make him the favorite to be the first passer selected.

2. DT Jalen Carter, Georgia: Carter’s production was undercut by sharing a defensive line with three first rounders last year. He’ll get a lot more opportunities as a junior.

1. DE Will Anderson Jr., Alabama: After collecting 17.5 sacks as a sophomore, Anderson seems primed to be the top pick in next year’s draft.

–Field Level Media