ESPN, NFL insiders name LSU star Kayshon Boutte as under-the-radar draft prospect

LSU’s Kayshon Boutte has proven he’s one of the best wide receiver prospects in all of college football. He has totaled 83 catches for 1,244 yards and 14 touchdowns over his two seasons in Baton Rouge. As the season is drawing closer, some are beginning to suggest his draft stock has reached the point where he might be undervalued. ESPN’s Matt Miller believes Boutte is set for a big junior season.

Miller broke down Boutte’s NFL Draft projection in a recent article at ESPN. He says that, if he can remain healthy, the new system at LSU will benefit no one more than Boutte.

“No one should be happier about coach Brian Kelly bringing his offensive philosophy to Baton Rouge than Boutte. The pro-style offense will feature run-pass options and quick hitters from Myles Brennan or Jayden Daniels – whoever wins the quarterback battle – which perfectly benefits the route running of Boutte,” said Miller. “The key for Boutte might be his health. He played in just six games last season due to an ankle injury and missed time in the spring due to the same injury. There’s no doubting his toughness or quickness as a route runner, but Boutte’s ankle is something scouts must watch closely.”

Miller’s projections have Boutte easily slated as a first-round pick. That is based on his freshman year and shortened sophomore year alone. His absence in the Tiger’s final seven games has helped him fall off the radar of some NFL scouts. One pro scout says that, even in a class full of talent, Boutte is his best of the group.

“There’s so much talk about (Ohio State’s) Jaxon Smith-Njigba or (USC’s) Jordan Addison, but I think Boutte is the best receiver in college,” said the scout. “New head coach, new offensive coordinator, new QB…He has a real shot to break out.”

If Boutte remains healthy, he could launch himself as high as the Top-10. His skill set and the success of previous LSU receivers could make him a prospect teams don’t want to overlook. The New Iberia, Louisiana native could hear his name earlier than some expect in the NFL Draft with a successful junior season that’ll open September 4th against Florida State.