Brian Kelly on Malik Nabers: 'I don't think there's a better receiver in the country'

With the 2024 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, the debate of who is the best receiver prospect in the class is intensifying. For the better part of the past calendar year, Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. was the undisputed No. 1. LSU’s Malik Nabers, however, is gaining steam on Harrison.

After Nabers clocked a 4.35 40-yard dash at LSU’s Pro Day this past Wednesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN tweeted that “there are some NFL personnel men who believe Malik Nabers is this draft class’ top wideout.”

LSU head football coach Brian Kelly would agree with Schefter’s report. Speaking with the media in Baton Rouge this week, he called Nabers the best receiver in the country.

“Physicality and ability to separate from great players, there has to be something you look for,” Kelly said. “When you watch film, you see him separate from great players in the SEC. Today you saw a 42-inch vertical and a 4.3 [40-yard dash]. This ability to separate on the field is now backed up by the physical prowess you see with a 42-inch vertical and a 4.3 [40-yard dash].

“It validates what you see on film and that it’s backed up by great physical traits. I think what it does more than anything else is that it shows he can separate with the ball in his hands. He can be explosive after the catch. Now it comes down to who is the kind of guy who you want to get the ball in their hands? I don’t think there’s a better receiver in the country.”

Malik Nabers rising up NFL draft boards

Nabers, 20, who will turn 21 before the 2024 NFL season begins, spent three seasons at LSU. He hauled in 189 receptions for 3,003 yards and 21 touchdowns. Nabers became LSU’s all-time receiving leader in 2023 after reeling in 89 receptions for 1,569 yards and 14 scores. He earned unanimous All-American and first-team All-SEC honors for his efforts.

Nabers himself doesn’t lack confidence, making the argument earlier this month at the NFL Scouting Combine to be the top wideout in this year’s draft class.

“I’m able to go outside and win. I’m able to go in the slot and be moved around and create space on the linebacker,” Nabers said. “I carry the ball pretty good. So, you know, a different offense can move me around and still get that dog mentality.”