When Justin Jefferson arrived at Louisiana State University (LSU) in 2017, he was a relatively unknown recruit from Destrehan, Louisiana. However, for those who remembered his older brothers Jordan and Rickey, there was a sense of excitement and anticipation for what this young wide receiver could bring to the Tigers football team.
Jordan and Rickey Jefferson had both played for LSU, with Jordan being a standout safety and Rickey a promising wide receiver. They had left their mark on the program and were well-respected by fans and coaches alike. So when Justin, the youngest of the three brothers, committed to play for the Tigers, there was a sense of familiarity and hope that he would follow in their footsteps.
But Justin Jefferson was not content with just following in his brothers’ footsteps. He was determined to make a name for himself and leave his own legacy at LSU. And that’s exactly what he did.
From the moment he stepped onto the field, it was clear that Justin Jefferson was a special talent. His speed, agility, and natural instincts made him a threat on every play. He quickly became a fan favorite, with his flashy plays and infectious energy on the field.
But it wasn’t just his natural abilities that set him apart. Justin’s work ethic and determination were unmatched. He spent countless hours in the weight room and on the practice field, constantly striving to improve his game. And it paid off.
In his freshman year, Justin Jefferson played in all 13 games and recorded 15 receptions for 140 yards and two touchdowns. It was a solid start to his college career, but he was just getting started.
In his sophomore year, Justin’s numbers skyrocketed. He led the team in receiving yards with 875 and tied for the team lead in touchdowns with six. He also had a career-high 54 receptions, earning him a spot on the All-SEC second team. But it was his performance in the Fiesta Bowl against UCF that truly put him on the map.
In that game, Justin Jefferson had 14 receptions for 227 yards and four touchdowns, breaking the LSU record for most receiving yards in a single game. He was also named the Offensive MVP of the game, solidifying his status as a rising star in college football.
But it was in his junior year that Justin Jefferson truly shined. He was a key part of LSU’s historic 2019 season, where they went undefeated and won the National Championship. Justin finished the season with 111 receptions for 1,540 yards and 18 touchdowns, breaking the school record for most receiving yards in a single season. He was also named a first-team All-American and a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award, given to the nation’s top receiver.
Justin Jefferson’s impact on the LSU football program cannot be overstated. He helped lead the team to one of their most successful seasons in history and left a lasting legacy as one of the greatest receivers to ever wear the purple and gold.
But beyond his on-field accomplishments, Justin Jefferson’s character and leadership were also praised by his coaches and teammates. He was a humble and hardworking player who always put the team first. He was also a mentor to younger players, passing down the lessons he learned from his older brothers.
As Justin Jefferson prepares to take his talents to the NFL, there is no doubt that he will continue to make his mark on the football world. But he will always be remembered as a Tiger, a player who arrived at LSU with big shoes to fill but left as a legend in his own right.
So to those who may have doubted Justin Jefferson when he first arrived at LSU, he has proven that he is more than just the younger brother of two former Tigers. He is a star in his own right, and his journey at LSU is a testament to his hard work, determination, and unwavering belief in himself.
