LSU star receiver Kayshon Boutte announced Wednesday night that he is entering the NFL draft.
Boutte will also not play for the Tigers against Purdue in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on Monday as he has opted out to prepare for the draft process.
Boutte’s announcement on a verified social media account came hours after coach Brian Kelly announced that Boutte was enrolled for the spring semester despite deciding to skip the bowl game.
Kelly later confirmed that Boutte informed the Tigers he’s leaving the team to turn pro.
“We support Kayshon and his decision,” Kelly said via Twitter. “He went through a thoughtful process and ultimately decided this was in his best interest. We appreciate all he did during his time at LSU and wish him well.”
Despite experiencing a dip in production this season, Boutte was considered to be a top prospect at his position when he said earlier this month that he was returning for his senior season.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. and Todd McShay both had him listed as the fifth-best draft-eligible receiver at the time.
Boutte will finish the season with 48 catches for 538 yards and two touchdowns — a far cry from the nine touchdown receptions he had as a sophomore.
However, Boutte did end the season with his most productive all-around performance, catching six passes for 107 yards and a touchdown during a loss to No. 1 Georgia in the SEC championship game on Dec. 3.
Last week, starting quarterback Jayden Daniels also announced he will return for the 2023 season.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.