Fans crown 2019 LSU team ‘greatest ever’ as four former stars combine for $666m NFL contracts
The debate over the greatest college football team of all time has existed for decades. Every era has had its dominant forces, from the 2001 Miami Hurricanes to the 1995 Nebraska Cornhuskers. However, in the modern football era, one team continues to rise above the rest in fan discussions—the 2019 LSU Tigers. The historic run led by head coach Ed Orgeron and Heisman-winning quarterback Joe Burrow remains the gold standard of college football excellence. Recently, the team’s legacy was further cemented as four of its former stars combined for an astonishing $666 million in NFL contracts, proving their dominance was no fluke.
The Unforgettable 2019 Season
The 2019 LSU Tigers didn’t just win games; they dismantled opponents. With a record-breaking offense orchestrated by passing game coordinator Joe Brady and offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger, LSU ran through an elite schedule on its way to a 15-0 record and a national championship.
Their journey was defined by marquee victories:
- Defeating No. 9 Texas (45-38) in Austin
- Overcoming No. 7 Florida (42-28) in Death Valley
- Dominating No. 9 Auburn (23-20)
- Beating No. 3 Alabama (46-41) on the road—LSU’s first win against the Crimson Tide since 2011
- Crushing No. 4 Georgia (37-10) in the SEC Championship
- Embarrassing No. 4 Oklahoma (63-28) in the College Football Playoff semifinal
- Demolishing No. 3 Clemson (42-25) in the National Championship
LSU became the first team in college football history to defeat seven teams ranked inside the AP Top 10 in a single season. Their offense averaged 48.4 points per game, while Joe Burrow set a new NCAA record with 60 touchdown passes, securing the Heisman Trophy in dominant fashion.
The $666 Million NFL Impact
The dominance of the 2019 LSU team wasn’t limited to college football. Their impact continues in the NFL, where multiple key players have ascended to stardom. Recently, four of those stars signed massive contracts, totaling an eye-watering $666 million:
1. Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals ($275M, 5 Years)
After leading LSU to a championship, Burrow was selected No. 1 overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2020 NFL Draft. Since then, he has transformed the Bengals from an afterthought to a Super Bowl contender, guiding them to Super Bowl LVI. His reward? A record-breaking $275 million contract, making him the highest-paid player in NFL history at the time.
2. Justin Jefferson – Minnesota Vikings ($140M, 4 Years)
Jefferson exploded onto the NFL scene as one of the most electrifying wide receivers in history. His unmatched route-running and playmaking ability led to him earning NFL Offensive Player of the Year honors. The Vikings locked up their star receiver with a $140 million extension, securing their offensive centerpiece for years to come.
3. Ja’Marr Chase – Cincinnati Bengals (Projected $150M+ Extension)
Although not yet officially signed, Chase is on track to receive a $150+ million contract extension with the Bengals. As Burrow’s favorite target, Chase has been a game-changer, helping propel Cincinnati to deep playoff runs with his speed, hands, and big-play ability.
4. Patrick Queen – Pittsburgh Steelers ($61M, 4 Years)
Queen, a crucial part of LSU’s defensive dominance in 2019, has developed into a top-tier linebacker in the NFL. After a strong stint with the Ravens, he signed a $61 million deal with the Steelers, reinforcing Pittsburgh’s defensive identity.
The Legacy of 2019 LSU
The numbers are staggering—four players from the 2019 LSU team alone securing $666 million in contracts. And that’s just the beginning. Several other key players from that team, such as Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Grant Delpit, and Derek Stingley Jr., continue making an impact at the pro level.
The greatness of the 2019 LSU Tigers wasn’t just in their college achievements but in their ability to produce long-lasting professional success. Their dominance at every level of competition and the subsequent NFL financial windfalls prove why fans continue to crown them the greatest college football team ever.