Much of the discussion surrounding LSU’s offseason has revolved around the receiver group and how the Tigers will replace two first-round draft picks, Brian Thomas Jr. and Malik Nabers.

There’s still talent at the wide receiver position: Kyren Lacy may be on the verge of his breakout season and CJ Daniels is coming off a 1,000-yard season at Liberty in 2023. But another returning player who could finally make a big impression is Chris Hilton Jr.

After his first two seasons in Baton Rouge were limited by injuries, Hilton played in 11 games with two starts in 2023 and finished the season with 13 catches for 225 yards and two touchdowns – all career highs.

Now that he’s likely being pushed into a starting role, coach Brian Kelly had a lot of positive things to say about the work Hilton has done in the offseason.

“It’s his time. He’s been waiting patiently. I think he’s put himself in a great position physically,” Kelly said. “He’s healthy, he’s worked for it, he’s put in time in the offseason. He’s had a really good spring and I think he’s had a good training camp. He’s caught the ball, he’s been effective, I expect him to have a really good season for us.”

“He’s a threat on the long ball, but he’s also shown he can run well. He’s even gotten better since training camp… I think he’s had a real learning curve and is getting better every day. But I think he’s going to be a big impact player for us this year.”

With Garrett Nussmeier a new starting quarterback, the Tigers need to be able to rely on their talent at the outside positions to make plays. Hilton has already flashed those skills and could be ready for a breakout season in 2024.

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