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Brian Kelly Drops Heartwarming Note To Celebrate LSU Players’ Latest Achievements

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated May 16, 2025 2:06 PM ET

Led by head coach Brian Kelly, the 2024 LSU Tigers had a solid year, going 9- 4 overall, 5-3 in SEC matchups, and finishing the season defeating the Baylor Bears 44-31 in the Texas Bowl.

However, with the school's spring semester now passing, the team announced on Friday that 11 players had graduated and earned their degrees, which is not something that every student athlete can do.

Of course, that makes this accomplishment a big deal, and it even drew a reaction from Kelly, who wrote, "I’m so proud of these guys for earning their degree from LSU!" via a social media post.

I’m so proud of these guys for earning their degree from LSU! https://t.co/D1jhh3Ow4p
— Brian Kelly (@CoachBrianKelly) May 16, 2025

Of those 11 graduates, two were selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, including offensive tackle Will Campbell going to the New England Patriots (pick No. 4) and tight end Mason Taylor to the New York Jets (pick No. 42).

However, linebacker Gabe Leonards, wide receiver Noah Nash, linebacker Harold Perkins Jr., kicker Damian Ramos and quarterback Garrett Nussmeier are still on the roster.

Nussmeier, who in 2024 completed 337-of-525 passes for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns, 12 interceptions and a 142.7 passing efficiency rating, even stayed despite being eligible for the draft.

That decision could prove to be extremely valuable if he has a strong showing, as ESPN BET already ties him and Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith for the second-best odds (+900) of winning the Heisman Trophy.

Nussmeier's retention is also important for Kelly, who is trying to help the Tigers reach the College Football Playoff for the first time since 2019, when they won the national championship.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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