The Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year nominations were announced by the NFL on Tuesday. On the list are three former football players from LSU.
The six finalists include Brian Thomas Jr., Malik Nabers, and Jayden Daniels. They join Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving, Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers, and Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix.
Before being chosen second overall by the Washington Commanders, Daniels, the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner, spent two seasons as a quarterback with the Tigers.
He helped the struggling team turn things around and earn 12 NFC East victories. Daniels passed for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns, good for a 69% completion rate. On the ground, he amassed 891 yards and six touchdowns while continuing to create with his legs.
Nabers was chosen as the sixth overall pick by the New York Giants. With 109 receptions, the wide receiver gained 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns. As the Giants look for their next franchise gunslinger, he caught passes from four different quarterbacks.
The Jacksonville Jaguars selected Thomas with the 23rd overall pick. For 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns, he caught 87 passes. Due to injuries at, he solidified his position as one of the team’s best pass catchers, along with tight end Evan Engram.
