Jelani Watkins settles the debate, LSU boasts the fastest wide receivers in the nation

LSU Football has built a reputation for developing some of the top wide receivers at the college level, many of whom go on to become game-changing stars in the NFL. From Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry to Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase, and now the dynamic duo of Brian Thomas Jr. and Malik Nabers, when LSU produces elite receivers, the entire country takes notice.

In 2025, LSU is set to feature another star-studded wide receiver group, with Aaron Anderson and Chris Hilton Jr. returning, alongside top-tier transfers joining the program. While LSU may have the best receiving corps in the nation for 2025, they will undoubtedly also possess one of, if not the fastest, wide receiver groups in the country.

LSU welcomes back speedster Chris Hilton Jr., one of the quickest receivers in college football, and adds Barion Brown from Kentucky, another high-speed threat. However, neither of these receivers can match the speed of freshman Jelani Watkins.

In his collegiate debut on the track, Watkins turned heads by running a 10.01 second 100-meter dash, marking the fastest time in the SEC and tying for the best time in college this season.

As a freshman, Watkins only appeared in two games, redshirting to further develop as a wide receiver. While LSU’s veteran receiving room is stacked, fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to see Watkins showcase his speed on the football field.

Watkins, a four-star recruit out of high school, chose LSU over Texas A&M. Although Watkins may not play much in 2025, fans are excited about the prospect of seeing him, Barion Brown, and Chris Hilton Jr. all on the field at the same time, combining their speed with Garrett Nussmeier’s powerful arm.