LSU’s star quarterback, Jayden Daniels, who clinched the prestigious 2023 Heisman Trophy, is set to enter the NFL draft, opting to forego LSU’s upcoming bowl game. Making the announcement via social media on Monday, Daniels, who transferred from Arizona State two years ago, expressed gratitude for his time at LSU, where he accumulated impressive statistics—3,812 passing yards, 40 touchdowns, 1,134 rushing yards, and 10 touchdowns.
Having claimed the Heisman title on December 9, triumphing over Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr., Daniels is now hailed as the third-best quarterback prospect by ESPN NFL draft Insider Mel Kiper Jr. and secures the No. 4 overall spot on his Big Board.
LSU is scheduled to face Wisconsin in the ReliaQuest Bowl on January 1 in Tampa, Florida. However, Daniels, in a heartfelt video, shared that his decision to transfer to LSU reignited his passion for football following a challenging period at Arizona State. In the 2022 season, he emerged as a top dual-threat quarterback, amassing 2,913 passing yards and an additional 885 yards on the ground.
Expressing gratitude in the video, Daniels acknowledged those who contributed to his journey, stating, “I want to say thank you to everyone who made this happen, but all great things must come to an end.” He assured fans that despite his departure, he plans to stay connected with the LSU program, emphasizing his commitment to the team and the city.
Notably, Daniels follows in the footsteps of Joe Burrow (2019) as the second LSU quarterback in the past five seasons to claim the Heisman. Additionally, he secured accolades such as the Davey O’Brien Award, Walter Camp Player of the Year, AP Player of the Year, and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
With Garrett Nussmeier expected to take the starting role against Wisconsin, Daniels expressed his intention to attend the bowl game to support his teammates, ensuring that his departure from the field won’t sever his ties with the LSU community.
