LSU Tigers 2019 National Championship Stars Continue Making Unbelievable History Amid NFL Free Agency

The LSU Tigers’ 2019 National Championship football team stands as one of the most iconic in college football history. Coached by Ed Orgeron, that season was a magical run that saw LSU dominate their way through a grueling schedule, culminating in a 42-25 victory over the Clemson Tigers in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. The 2019 LSU squad was loaded with talent, boasting numerous players who would go on to enjoy successful careers in the NFL. But what’s even more impressive is that these players, many of whom have already made an indelible mark on the league, continue to rewrite the history books, even years after their college triumphs.

As of 2025, many of the stars from that championship team are still making waves, and their impact is not limited to their college days. These players are continuing to dominate during the NFL Free Agency period and setting new standards of excellence that are a testament to their legendary performances in Baton Rouge. From the number one overall pick, Joe Burrow, to the versatile receiver, Justin Jefferson, to the defensive juggernaut, Patrick Queen, the 2019 LSU squad has produced some of the most elite talent to ever grace the NFL.

The Rise of Joe Burrow: From LSU to NFL Superstar

Joe Burrow’s meteoric rise from a college transfer to the number one overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft is one of the most compelling stories of modern football. Burrow, who started his collegiate career at Ohio State, transferred to LSU and immediately changed the trajectory of the Tigers’ offense. Under offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger and passing game coordinator Joe Brady, Burrow had a record-breaking season in 2019. He threw for 5,671 yards and 60 touchdowns, setting NCAA records, including the highest single-season passing touchdowns in a season.

In the 2020 NFL Draft, Burrow was selected first overall by the Cincinnati Bengals, marking the beginning of a new era in the franchise’s history. His transition to the NFL was nothing short of remarkable. Although he faced a challenging rookie season, marred by a torn ACL injury, Burrow showed flashes of brilliance. He finished the 2021 and 2022 seasons as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, leading the Bengals to the Super Bowl in 2022 and reaching the AFC Championship game again in 2023.

Burrow’s leadership, poise under pressure, and ability to deliver in clutch moments have made him one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in the league. His performance during the NFL Free Agency period has also been notable, as he and his agent continue to negotiate a contract extension that will cement Burrow’s place among the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history. He is expected to receive one of the largest deals in league history as Cincinnati seeks to keep their franchise quarterback happy and healthy for years to come.

Joe Burrow’s continued excellence after the 2019 National Championship is a testament to his commitment to growth and improvement. While the Super Bowl eluded him in 2022, there’s no doubt that Burrow has the potential to lead the Bengals to future championships, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his generation.

Justin Jefferson: The Best Receiver in the NFL

While Joe Burrow’s ascension to NFL stardom was meteoric, his favorite target in 2019, Justin Jefferson, quickly proved he was destined for greatness as well. Jefferson, a standout wide receiver for LSU, became the Tigers’ top receiving weapon during their championship run. He caught 111 passes for 1,540 yards and 18 touchdowns during that season, leading the team in nearly every receiving category.

Jefferson was drafted 22nd overall by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2020 NFL Draft. His first two seasons in the NFL were historic. In his rookie year, he broke the NFL record for most receiving yards by a rookie, surpassing the previous mark set by Anquan Boldin. Jefferson finished the 2020 season with 1,400 yards and 7 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to make an immediate impact in the NFL.

In 2021, Jefferson took his game to the next level, solidifying his position as one of the best wide receivers in the league. He finished the season with 1,616 yards and 10 touchdowns. His route running, hands, and ability to make spectacular catches continue to draw comparisons to some of the all-time greats, including Hall of Famers such as Randy Moss and Jerry Rice. As a result, Jefferson has quickly become the focal point of the Vikings’ offense, and his future in Minnesota is looking incredibly bright.

As of 2025, Jefferson’s contract negotiations and Free Agency discussions have been a focal point for the Vikings and the league. His camp is expected to secure one of the largest wide receiver contracts in NFL history, which will undoubtedly make him one of the highest-paid players at his position.

Jefferson’s continued dominance in the NFL after his days at LSU is a testament to his exceptional talent and work ethic. The 2019 National Championship was just the beginning for a player who has firmly entrenched himself as one of the premier talents in the NFL.

Patrick Queen: A Defensive Force in the NFL

While the offensive players from the 2019 LSU team have stolen much of the spotlight in the NFL, LSU’s defense was also instrumental in their National Championship run. Among the standout defensive players was linebacker Patrick Queen. Queen’s explosive athleticism, sideline-to-sideline range, and leadership made him one of the most important players on the LSU defense in 2019.

Queen was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Since joining the NFL, Queen has quickly proven himself as one of the best linebackers in the league. Known for his ability to read plays and quickly react to offensive schemes, Queen has become a key player in the Ravens’ defense, which is known for its physicality and strategic playmaking. In just a few seasons, he has made multiple Pro Bowl appearances and has been named to All-Pro teams.

His journey through the NFL Free Agency process will be an intriguing one as he continues to be a focal point of the Ravens’ defense. With the Ravens’ commitment to maintaining a championship-caliber team, Patrick Queen will be a player to watch in the coming seasons, especially as the franchise navigates his potential extension or even a franchise tag.

Queen’s transition from LSU’s National Champion to an elite NFL linebacker speaks volumes about his growth, development, and work ethic. His ability to excel in one of the NFL’s toughest defensive systems proves that his best years may still be ahead.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire: A Steady Force in the NFL Backfield

Clyde Edwards-Helaire was one of the most versatile players on LSU’s 2019 National Championship team, serving as the team’s primary running back. His speed, vision, and ability to make defenders miss were key factors in the Tigers’ dominant offensive performances that season. Edwards-Helaire rushed for over 1,400 yards and scored 17 touchdowns, adding another 453 receiving yards and another touchdown through the air.

In the 2020 NFL Draft, Edwards-Helaire was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 32nd overall pick. In his first year with the Chiefs, Edwards-Helaire’s impact was felt immediately. He contributed to Kansas City’s high-powered offense, complementing quarterback Patrick Mahomes and wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Despite battling injuries in subsequent seasons, Edwards-Helaire’s ability to be an all-around back continues to make him a valuable asset for the Chiefs.

The NFL Free Agency landscape surrounding Edwards-Helaire will undoubtedly be an interesting one as the Chiefs evaluate their options for running backs moving forward. Given his skillset and ability to contribute in both the rushing and passing game, Edwards-Helaire’s continued role with the Chiefs or another team will be an intriguing storyline for years to come.

Other Notable LSU Stars Making Their Mark

While Burrow, Jefferson, Queen, and Edwards-Helaire stand out as key figures, there are other LSU players from the 2019 National Championship team who have continued to make significant contributions in the NFL.

• Terrace Marshall Jr.: A talented wide receiver who has carved out a role with the Carolina Panthers, Marshall has shown flashes of brilliance and continues to develop into a reliable target in the NFL.
• Ja’Marr Chase: Drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals with the 5th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Chase is another wide receiver from LSU who has exploded onto the scene. Chase’s 2021 Rookie of the Year season, where he amassed over 1,400 yards and 13 touchdowns, quickly turned him into one of the top wide receivers in the league.
• K’Lavon Chaisson: The versatile linebacker/defensive end has provided depth and rotational plays for the Jacksonville Jaguars and continues to develop his game as a pass rusher and run defender.

 LSU’s Legacy Lives On in the NFL

The legacy of the LSU Tigers’ 2019 National Championship team extends far beyond Baton Rouge. These players have not only achieved incredible success in the NFL but are continuing to redefine what it means to be an elite football player in the modern era. From Joe Burrow’s rise to superstardom as the Bengals’ franchise quarterback, to Justin Jefferson’s dominance as one of the NFL’s best wide receivers, to Patrick Queen’s tenacity and leadership on defense, these players have solidified their place among the all-time greats.

As of 2025, many of the stars from LSU’s 2019 championship team continue to make headlines in the NFL. Their impact on the field is undeniable, and their stories serve as inspiration for future generations of football players, showing that greatness forged in college can translate to legendary careers at the professional level.

With each passing year, these players continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the NFL, proving that LSU’s 2019 National Championship team was not just a flash in the pan but a program-defining moment that will echo through football history for decades to come.