13 Former LSU Tigers in the NFL Divisional Round This Weekend
As the NFL playoffs continue to heat up, one of the most exciting aspects for college football fans is seeing former players represent their alma maters on the biggest stage. LSU, one of the premier programs in college football, has long been a powerhouse for developing NFL talent, and the 2024 NFL postseason is no exception. With the NFL Divisional Round kicking off this weekend, 13 former LSU Tigers are set to compete for a chance to reach the NFL’s ultimate stage: the Super Bowl.
This article will take a closer look at the LSU alumni who are still alive in the playoffs, the impact they’ve had on their respective teams, and the role they could play in helping their squads advance through the Divisional Round. From all-star wide receivers to standout defenders, LSU’s football program continues to produce NFL-caliber talent that makes a difference at the highest level.
1. Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals (Quarterback)
Joe Burrow, the 2020 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and Heisman Trophy winner, is undoubtedly one of LSU’s most famous alumni in the NFL today. Burrow, who led LSU to a national championship in 2019, has been sensational for the Cincinnati Bengals since being drafted first overall in 2020. He’s established himself as one of the league’s top quarterbacks, known for his poise, accuracy, and clutch performances.
Heading into the 2024 NFL Divisional Round, Burrow is leading the Bengals in a matchup against the Buffalo Bills. After another stellar season where he threw for over 4,500 yards and 35 touchdowns, Burrow is poised to help Cincinnati make another deep run in the playoffs. His leadership and ability to deliver in big moments will be key for the Bengals as they aim to make a second consecutive appearance in the AFC Championship game.
2. Justin Jefferson – Minnesota Vikings (Wide Receiver)
Justin Jefferson, one of the NFL’s premier wide receivers, continues to shine as a member of the Minnesota Vikings. Jefferson, who broke multiple rookie receiving records during his first season in the league, has only continued to rise since then. The LSU product had a remarkable 2024 season, recording over 1,800 receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns.
In the NFL Divisional Round, Jefferson will play a key role as the Vikings take on the San Francisco 49ers. As the team’s top offensive weapon, Jefferson’s ability to create separation, make big plays, and help quarterback Kirk Cousins find success will be essential for Minnesota. If Jefferson can continue his dominant play, he could lead the Vikings to an upset victory and further solidify his case as one of the best wide receivers in the league.
3. Tyrann Mathieu – Kansas City Chiefs (Safety)
Tyrann Mathieu, also known as the “Honey Badger,” is a seasoned veteran and one of the most respected defensive players in the NFL. After spending several years with the Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans, Mathieu joined the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019, where he quickly became an anchor of their defense. His ability to read the game, force turnovers, and provide leadership in the secondary has made him an indispensable part of the Chiefs’ success.
As the Chiefs prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers in the Divisional Round, Mathieu’s experience and playmaking ability will be crucial for Kansas City. The Chiefs have one of the most potent offenses in the league, but it is their defense, led by Mathieu, that can often make the difference in big games. If Mathieu can continue to make key stops and force turnovers, Kansas City will be well-positioned for a deep postseason run.
4. Devin White – Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Linebacker)
Devin White, a star linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has established himself as one of the league’s top defenders since being drafted by the team in 2019. White’s speed, tackling ability, and football IQ have made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. In his four seasons in the NFL, White has racked up multiple sacks, interceptions, and tackles, including some game-changing plays in Tampa Bay’s Super Bowl run during the 2020 season.
Heading into the Divisional Round, the Buccaneers will face off against the Dallas Cowboys, and White’s role in stopping the Cowboys’ explosive offense will be vital. As a sideline-to-sideline linebacker with an ability to cover both the run and the pass, White will need to be at his best if Tampa Bay is to continue its playoff journey. His ability to make plays in critical moments will be a key factor in Tampa Bay’s defense.
5. Jamal Adams – Seattle Seahawks (Safety)
Jamal Adams has been a force for the Seattle Seahawks since being traded from the New York Jets in 2020. Known for his aggressive playing style, Adams is a safety who thrives in both run support and pass coverage. While injuries have limited him at times, his impact when healthy is undeniable. Adams is one of the most versatile players in the league, capable of covering tight ends, rushing the quarterback, and making key tackles in the open field.
As Seattle prepares to take on the Green Bay Packers in the Divisional Round, Adams will be tasked with helping to slow down the Packers’ potent offense. His ability to stop the run and provide coverage in passing situations will be key to the Seahawks’ success. If Adams can make some key plays in the secondary, it could give Seattle the boost they need to advance further in the playoffs.
6. Leonard Fournette – Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Running Back)
Leonard Fournette, a standout running back who won a national championship with LSU in 2019, has found a solid role with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After an excellent career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Fournette joined the Buccaneers in 2020 and quickly became a key part of their offense. Fournette’s blend of size, power, and speed makes him a difficult player to stop, and his ability to pick up tough yards is vital for Tampa Bay’s offense.
As the Buccaneers face off against the Dallas Cowboys, Fournette will be tasked with helping to balance the offensive attack and keep pressure off quarterback Tom Brady. Fournette’s ability to grind out yards and score touchdowns in short-yardage situations will be crucial for the Buccaneers’ offensive game plan. If Fournette can establish the running game early, it will set the stage for a strong performance in the Divisional Round.
7. Michael Divinity Jr. – Dallas Cowboys (Linebacker)
Michael Divinity Jr., a linebacker who played at LSU from 2016 to 2019, has spent his NFL career as a depth player for the Dallas Cowboys. While Divinity may not be a household name just yet, he has worked his way into a key special teams and depth linebacker role for the Cowboys. His tenacity and ability to contribute in multiple areas of the game make him an asset to the Dallas defense.
As the Cowboys look to continue their playoff run, Divinity’s experience and contributions could make a difference, especially in critical moments when depth is required. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations could give the Cowboys a boost on defense, especially in short-yardage situations or when they need to contain a dynamic opponent.
8. DJ Chark – Detroit Lions (Wide Receiver)
DJ Chark, a wide receiver who had an exceptional career at LSU before being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars, is another former Tiger who is continuing to make waves in the NFL. Known for his speed and ability to make big plays downfield, Chark’s presence on the Detroit Lions has been vital to their offense.
Chark will need to be at his best in the Divisional Round matchup against the Chicago Bears. His ability to stretch the field and create opportunities for other players, such as Jared Goff, will be key. If Chark can continue to make explosive plays, Detroit will have an increased chance to advance further in the playoffs.
9. Patrick Queen – Baltimore Ravens (Linebacker)
Patrick Queen has been a standout linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens since being drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Queen, known for his speed, coverage skills, and ability to make tackles, has emerged as a key player in Baltimore’s defensive scheme. As the Ravens face off against the Kansas City Chiefs in the Divisional Round, Queen will be tasked with slowing down the explosive Chiefs offense.
Queen’s speed and coverage skills will be important in helping to limit the impact of the Chiefs’ passing attack. His ability to neutralize key players and make tackles in space will be a determining factor for Baltimore’s defense.
10. K’Lavon Chaisson – Jacksonville Jaguars (Edge Rusher)
K’Lavon Chaisson, a talented edge rusher from LSU, has continued to develop into a valuable defensive weapon for the Jacksonville Jaguars. His ability to rush the passer and set the edge in run defense makes him a key contributor to Jacksonville’s defense.
As the Jaguars prepare to face off against the Buffalo Bills, Chaisson will need to put pressure on the quarterback and disrupt Buffalo’s offensive rhythm. His ability to sack the quarterback and force turnovers could be a game-changer for Jacksonville as they aim to advance in the playoffs.
11. Tre’Davious White – Buffalo Bills (Cornerback)
Tre’Davious White has been one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL since being drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2017. His ability to shut down top wide receivers and provide lockdown coverage has made him a critical piece of the Bills’ defense. As Buffalo takes on the Cincinnati Bengals in the Divisional Round, White will need to neutralize wide receivers like Tyler Boyd and Ja’Marr Chase to give his team a chance.
White’s playmaking ability and ability to create turnovers could turn the tide for the Bills in a highly competitive matchup.
12. Barkevious Mingo – New England Patriots (Linebacker)
Barkevious Mingo, a veteran linebacker and former LSU Tiger, has had a steady NFL career as a depth player. His experience and ability to make an impact on special teams and as a pass rusher could come in handy for the New England Patriots in their playoff game against the Tennessee Titans.
13. Jabril Cox – Dallas Cowboys (Linebacker)
Jabril Cox, another former LSU standout, has found a role as a linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys. Cox’s ability to cover the field and make key plays will be important as Dallas looks to defeat the Green Bay Packers in the Divisional Round. His skill set will be crucial in pass coverage and defending against the run.
Conclusion
As the NFL Divisional Round approaches, 13 former LSU Tigers are poised to make an impact on their respective teams. From star quarterbacks like Joe Burrow to key defensive players such as Devin White and Tyrann Mathieu, LSU has once again proven itself as a breeding ground for elite NFL talent. With these former Tigers continuing to shine on the biggest stage, LSU’s legacy in the NFL remains stronger than ever, and fans of the program will be cheering on these players as they aim for the ultimate prize: a Super Bowl championship.
