2024 NFL Draft: Malik Nabers is the next great LSU wide receiver

The LSU Tigers have quickly transformed into one of the best wide receiver factories in college football. With the likes of Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase roaming the gridiron on Sundays, it’s unlikely that the upward trajectory ends anytime soon. Malik Nabers, the team’s WR1 in 2023, has cemented himself as “next up” in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Malik Nabers Boasts Superstar Potential On Sundays

The Louisiana native was a highly-heralded recruit coming out of high school. He originally committed to Mississippi State before changing his mind and staying local with his hometown Tigers. That decision proved to be a worthwhile switch, as Nabers is regarded as one of the best pass catchers in the entire country.

The 20-year-old wideout eclipsed 1,000 yards in 2022, but it took all 14 games to reach this mark. So far, through nine games, Nabers has set career bests in yardage, yards per reception, and touchdowns. This past weekend, against an elite Alabama defense, the gifted receiver hauled in 10 passes for 171 yards and a score. It was yet another notch in his belt for WR2 status in the upcoming draft.

Nabers’ skillset is perfectly suited for the new-age NFL. He stands at a stout 6-foot, 199 pounds. Several snaps come from the slot, which allows Nabers free release off the line of scrimmage, making it nearly impossible for defenders to stay with him downfield. The best trait in his arsenal is his creativity after the catch, often turning into a running back with the ball in tow.

Where Does Nabers Rank In A Stacked 2024 NFL Draft Class?

Make no mistake, though, Nabers boasts bonafide pass-catching traits. The 2023 Citrus Bowl MVP is a contested catch specialist, using his vice-grip hands and competitiveness downfield to snag some extremely difficult throws. His breakaway speed is impressive, along with a trademark tackle-breaking prowess.

As a route runner, Nabers could add some more wrinkles to his game. He thrives in the slot, but given his traits, I’d expect the future first-round pick to line up all over the place on Sundays. An NFL wide receiver coach will help Nabers smooth out these rough edges; all the talent is there.

The WR class is loaded in 2024. Marvin Harrison Jr. is the consensus top player at the position, with guys like Rome Odunze and Keon Coleman right on his heels. Malik Nabers is firmly in this discussion as well. His potential is as high as any of his peers, showcasing a ceiling that could rival what LSU alums Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson have shown at the next level.

Nabers currently ranks as the WR3 on my Big Board, netting him a top-15 ranking in the entire class. Don’t be surprised if he comes off the board even higher than that by the time next Spring rolls around. He is a fixture in any first-round mock draft you’ll read — that projection will become reality in a few short months. Get your Nabers stock now; he’s headed to the moon.