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The NFL Scouting Combine is a highly anticipated event every year, serving as one of the most important evaluations for players seeking to make the leap to the professional level. This year, as in previous years, college athletes from all over the nation will showcase their skills in front of NFL scouts and executives, with the hope of securing a coveted spot in the upcoming draft. However, as the list of invitees continues to be released, the exclusion of certain players has raised eyebrows. One of the most talked-about exclusions this year comes from the LSU Tigers, as wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, once considered a potential first-round pick, was not invited to the Combine.

On the flip side, several of his teammates from LSU, including cornerback Mekhi Garner, linebacker Harold Perkins, and defensive tackle Jaquelin Roy, are set to attend. The disparity between these athletes’ opportunities has raised questions about the current state of LSU football and the development of its players. Why wasn’t Boutte invited? And what does this say about his draft prospects, as well as the future of LSU football?

### Kayshon Boutte: Once a Star, Now Left Out?

Kayshon Boutte was once considered one of the most promising wide receiver prospects in college football. As a freshman in 2020, he burst onto the scene with a spectacular 735-yard season, showcasing his blazing speed, exceptional route-running, and ability to make plays down the field. Many expected him to be a top receiver in the 2023 NFL Draft, with some analysts even projecting him as a first-round pick.

However, his college career didn’t progress as smoothly as many hoped. Boutte’s sophomore season was marred by inconsistency and injuries, and while he flashed his potential, he wasn’t able to build on the momentum from his rookie campaign. During the 2022 season, Boutte’s numbers were a far cry from what many expected—his performance didn’t fully match the high expectations set for him. While he still displayed his undeniable athleticism and playmaking ability at times, Boutte’s lack of production raised questions about his future.

One of the most significant setbacks for Boutte came when he chose to return to LSU for his junior season instead of entering the NFL Draft after his sophomore year. While many expected this decision to benefit him, the 2022 season only served to highlight the inconsistencies in his game. His draft stock took a hit, and now, in an unexpected turn, Boutte was left off the invite list for the NFL Combine.

This snub has led to significant speculation. Is Boutte’s exclusion an indication of his decline as a prospect? Did his underwhelming 2022 season sour NFL scouts’ opinions on him? It’s unclear, but this omission is certainly a blow to his draft aspirations. While Boutte could still be drafted based on his college tape, not being invited to the Combine may make scouts more cautious. He won’t have the opportunity to showcase his skills in Indianapolis, where many prospects significantly boost their stock with impressive performances in drills, interviews, and medical evaluations. The Combine is often a make-or-break event for many players, and Boutte’s absence from it signals that his path to the NFL may be more difficult than anticipated.

### Multiple Tigers Set to Attend the NFL Combine

While Boutte will have to rely on his pro day to make an impression, several of his LSU teammates are poised to have the opportunity of a lifetime. Mekhi Garner, Harold Perkins, and Jaquelin Roy are among the players who received invites to the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, and their inclusion reflects their strong performances during the season.

#### Mekhi Garner: A Physical Cornerback Ready for the NFL

Mekhi Garner, a cornerback who transferred to LSU from Louisiana-Lafayette, made an immediate impact in Baton Rouge. Garner was a physical presence on the field, using his size and strength to lock down opposing receivers. His ball skills, coupled with his ability to disrupt passing lanes, made him a standout in LSU’s defense. Scouts have taken notice of his size (6’2” and over 200 pounds), speed, and ability to cover a wide range of receivers. As a result, Garner will be one of the top cornerback prospects to watch during the Combine. He is expected to impress with his athletic testing, and a strong showing could solidify his spot as one of the top cornerbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft.

#### Harold Perkins: A Versatile Defensive Playmaker

Another player that is expected to shine at the NFL Combine is linebacker Harold Perkins. Perkins, a true sophomore, was one of the most dynamic and versatile defenders in college football during the 2022 season. His ability to rush the passer, cover ground quickly, and make plays all over the field made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Perkins led LSU in tackles for loss and sacks and was widely regarded as one of the most disruptive players in the nation.

His skill set is incredibly rare—combining elite athleticism with a natural football IQ, Perkins has the potential to be a game-changing linebacker at the next level. His performance at the Combine will be closely watched, as NFL scouts are eager to see how his traits translate to the professional game. Perkins has the tools to be an immediate contributor at the NFL level, and if he has a strong showing at the Combine, he could find himself climbing the draft boards.

#### Jaquelin Roy: A Defensive Force in the Trenches

Jaquelin Roy, a defensive tackle, was a key part of LSU’s defensive line during the 2022 season. Known for his power, explosiveness, and ability to disrupt offensive lines, Roy has the traits necessary to make an impact in the NFL. While not always the flashiest player, Roy consistently got the job done for LSU, pushing the pocket and eating up space in the middle. His Combine performance will be crucial in showing scouts his potential to thrive at the next level, particularly in terms of his speed and agility as a defensive lineman.

Roy’s versatility allows him to play both as a traditional defensive tackle and in a 3-4 scheme, which could make him an attractive option for NFL teams looking to bolster their defensive lines. If he can demonstrate elite athleticism during his drills, it could push him into the conversation as one of the top defensive tackle prospects in the draft.

### The Impact of the LSU Players’ Combine Invites

While the exclusion of Kayshon Boutte from the NFL Scouting Combine raises some concerns, the fact that multiple LSU players have received invites highlights the talent still present in Baton Rouge. LSU has proven time and time again that it can develop NFL-caliber talent, and this year’s Combine invites are just the latest proof of the program’s success. Players like Perkins, Roy, and Garner represent the next wave of LSU football stars who could soon make their mark in the NFL.

For head coach Brian Kelly, this is a sign that his program is continuing to produce elite-level athletes who are ready to compete at the highest level. Even though LSU had its ups and downs during the 2022 season, the program remains one of the premier football powerhouses in the country. The presence of these players at the NFL Combine is a testament to the strength of the program, the quality of coaching, and the pipeline of talent that LSU continues to build.

### What’s Next for Kayshon Boutte?

As for Kayshon Boutte, his journey is far from over. While missing the NFL Combine is a setback, it doesn’t necessarily spell the end of his draft prospects. Boutte will still have the opportunity to showcase his skills at LSU’s Pro Day, where he will have a chance to catch the attention of NFL scouts. It’s possible that with a strong Pro Day performance, Boutte can redeem his draft stock and prove that he deserves a spot in the NFL.

For now, all eyes are on LSU’s other Combine-bound prospects, and it will be fascinating to see how they perform in Indianapolis. The 2023 NFL Draft will surely be another chapter in LSU’s continued dominance of producing top-tier NFL talent.