Kayshon Boutte shares growth since start of season

When LSU wide receiver Kayshon Boutte started the season with a string of uncharacteristic performances, questions came up about a number of potential reasons. After all, as a projected first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, no questions about his talent can be taken seriously.

During his recent press conference, Kayshon Boutte addressed the many things that went into his slow performance, from his physical fitness to the chemistry with a new quarterback and even his need to build character under a new head coach.

“I feel like the beginning of the year, coming back from the injury, it was different,” said Boutte. “I wasn’t my same weight, kind of felt like I wasn’t moving how I used to. It was just different for me all together. But I’m back where I was before, kind of still getting there but I feel good. Coming along, getting there, character getting there. Everything’s good, falling in line.”

As he continues to rebound, Boutte looks to make a major impact against Alabama this weekend with a chance to pick up Brian Kelly’s first marquee win at LSU. In seven games so far, the Tigers receiver has 27 catches for 288 yards and one touchdown, adding one carry for 41 yards.

Brian Kelly on Kayshon Boutte

Brian Kelly also opened up on Kayshon Boutte’s improvement over the course of LSU’s season during his press conference after the recent win over Ole Miss and offered high praise to his star. He believes Boutte’s level of comfort has had a lot to do with his improved presence both on the field and in the locker room.

“I think he’s feeling comfortable with his role and his leadership role. He’s been outstanding…I couldn’t find (him) the first week and now he’s running the show,” said Kelly.

Even with the ebbs and flows of his season, Boutte’s engagement has never shifted according to Kelly. That is what he is happiest about, even though Boutte has once again proven his explosive ability on the field.

“That’s what I love about him. He’s been so engaged, so part of what we’re doing. And we’re better because of it,” Kelly said. “You can see when he touches the football, he’s electric. And we’re here because our best players are playing their best football.”

As Boutte has improved, so has LSU. Now that their strongest weapon has a better feel for his season, the Tigers will be better off down the stretch in their final four games.