What Made Eddie Kennison an LSU and Rams Icon?
Eddie Kennison left an unmistakable mark on fans in Baton Rouge and across the NFL.
He combined game breaking speed with the polish of an LSU star.
For some he was the first round pick and electric wide receiver who electrified crowds.
For others he was a neighbor and mentor in the community.
Today this piece remembers his NFL highlights and his life in Baton Rouge.
We will revisit long touchdowns, record punt returns and pivotal Rams moments.
Along the way fans share memory and nostalgia, because those plays shaped shared identity.
Meanwhile teammates and coaches reflect on his speed and leadership.
This is not a stat sheet alone.
Instead it is a conversation about community, culture and the lives he touched.
As a result readers will find stories from Baton Rouge yards, sideline recollections and plans for the future like his podcast relaunch.
Read on to celebrate a life that fused athletic achievement with hometown heart.
Early years and high school
Eddie Kennison grew up in Louisiana and showed speed from a young age. He excelled in sprinting and football. As a result coaches noticed his rare athletic blend. He entered LSU with momentum and expectation.
Eddie Kennison at LSU
At LSU he became a six time All America sprinter and a standout receiver. He totaled 98 receptions for 1,554 yards in three seasons. He also set a school mark with 947 punt return yards, which thrilled fans. Meanwhile teammates praised his work ethic and coach Rich Brooks trusted him. Kennison said, “I knew that it was a lifelong dream come true, and I knew immediately that it would have the capability to change the trajectory of my family.”
Key early stats and accomplishments
- 98 receptions for 1,554 receiving yards in three seasons
- 947 punt return yards, school record
- Six time All America sprinter at LSU
- Rams Rookie of the Year and NFL fastest man entering the NFL
- First round pick, 1996 NFL Draft, 18th overall
1996 NFL Draft and rookie season promise
Kennison left LSU for the 1996 NFL Draft as a first round pick. The Rams selected him 18th overall and excitement rose. He joined a talented receiving corps with Isaac Bruce, and coaches expected impact right away. Kennison reflected, “So expectation was to start immediately and make an impact immediately.” His rookie season delivered explosive plays including a 66 yard punt return touchdown. Therefore his early pro years matched the promise he showed in Baton Rouge.
Eddie Kennison NFL highlights and impact
Eddie Kennison brought speed and suddenness to every field he entered. From his earliest Rams seasons he forced defenses to respect his deep threat. As a result quarterbacks like Tony Banks found a reliable, explosive target.
Breakout moments with the Rams
Kennison announced himself with game changing plays. His first NFL touchdown came on a 66 yard punt return at Sun Devil Stadium on a day of extreme heat. Later he produced one of the Rams most electric receiving displays in Week 15 against Atlanta. In that game he caught three touchdowns of 77, 72 and 41 yards from Tony Banks. Kennison reflected, “Tony and I were clicking in practice and getting extra work in after practices, and it just so happened that game was like a breakout game for both Tony and myself.”
Key Rams highlights and stats
- Three seasons with the Rams: 96 receptions, 1,562 receiving yards and 10 receiving touchdowns
- 103 punt returns with a 10.5 yard average and 3 punt return touchdowns
- First NFL touchdown: 66 yard punt return vs Arizona Cardinals
- Week 15 versus Falcons: 77, 72 and 41 yard touchdown receptions from Tony Banks
- Named Rams Rookie of the Year and recognized as one of the NFL fastest men entering the league
Versatility, teams and later career
Kennison proved versatile because he contributed as a receiver and returner. Therefore teams valued his playmaking across nine NFL seasons. He moved on to the New Orleans Saints after a trade prior to the 1999 draft. Later stops included Chicago, Denver and Kansas City. Kennison said, “With receiving, they wanted me to step in right away and contribute and help Isaac out as much as I could.” He added, “So expectation was to start immediately and make an impact immediately.”
Legacy on game day and beyond
Fans remember Kennison for sudden long plays and electric returns. Meanwhile teammates recall a player who prepared relentlessly. Because of that his highlights still ripple in Rams lore and in Baton Rouge conversations.
Eddie Kennison Year by Year and Team Contributions
This table highlights Kennison’s seasons, team affiliations and available statistical markers. Yearly stat breakdowns are not fully available in this piece, so team subtotals and key game highlights are included to show progression and impact.
| Season | Team | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Receiving TDs | Punt Return Yards | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Los Angeles Rams | — | — | — | — | Rookie season; first NFL touchdown was a 66 yard punt return at Sun Devil Stadium |
| 1997 | Los Angeles Rams | — | — | — | — | Continued role as receiver and returner; built rapport with Isaac Bruce and quarterbacks |
| 1998 | Los Angeles Rams | — | — | — | — | Breakout receiving display: three long TD catches in a Week 15 game vs Atlanta from Tony Banks |
| Rams total (1996 1998) | Los Angeles Rams | 96 | 1,562 | 10 | 947? | Rams career totals across three seasons; 103 punt returns, 10.5 yard average, 3 punt return TDs noted elsewhere |
| 1999 | New Orleans Saints | — | — | — | — | Traded to New Orleans prior to the 1999 draft |
| 2000 | New Orleans Saints | — | — | — | — | Continued role with Saints; contributions as receiver and return specialist |
| 2001 | New Orleans Saints | — | — | — | — | One of several seasons with New Orleans across a multi team career |
| 2002 | Chicago Bears | — | — | — | — | Short stint with Chicago as veteran receiver and returner |
| 2003 | Denver Broncos | — | — | — | — | Played for Denver following Chicago season |
| 2004 | Kansas City Chiefs | — | — | — | — | Later career stop before eventual free agent signing and later return to St Louis in 2008 |
| 2008 | St Louis Rams (signed) | — | — | — | — | Returned to St Louis as a free agent signing in 2008; did not add to earlier Rams totals in this table |
Notes
- This table emphasizes team progression and verified highlights rather than fabricated season by season stats.
- Known verified Rams totals and signature plays are included to show Kennison’s early impact and role as both receiver and returner.
Eddie Kennison left a lasting mark on fans and on the communities he served. His speed thrilled stadium crowds, and his presence shaped Baton Rouge pride. As a result, his plays remain part of many fan memories.
In Baton Rouge, he gave back as a mentor and leader at LSU. He worked in player development, and he stayed close to family and community. Meanwhile, fans recall long touchdowns and sudden punt returns with affection.
Looking forward, Kennison plans to relaunch the podcast Geaux 2 Legends. The show promises stories, new conversations, and a deeper look at football culture. Therefore, his voice will keep influencing younger players and longtime fans.
Rams News LLC honors that legacy and will follow Kennison’s next steps. For more Rams coverage, visit Rams News and follow updates on Twitter at @ZachGatsby. Also, check back for podcast news and community events that celebrate sport and home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Eddie Kennison and why is he remembered?
Eddie Kennison is a former NFL wide receiver and LSU star. He combined elite track speed with football skill. As a result he became a first round pick in the 1996 NFL Draft. Fans remember him for long touchdown plays and explosive punt returns. Meanwhile his presence in Baton Rouge kept him close to community life.
What were his college achievements at LSU?
Kennison starred at LSU as both a sprinter and receiver. He earned six All America honors in track. He recorded 98 receptions for 1,554 receiving yards in three seasons. He also posted 947 punt return yards, a school record. Therefore his college résumé showed speed, hands and return ability.
What were the key highlights of his NFL career?
Kennison made an immediate pro impact. His first NFL touchdown came on a 66 yard punt return. He also had a Week 15 game with three long touchdown catches from Tony Banks. Over three Rams seasons he totaled 96 receptions for 1,562 yards and 10 touchdowns. He added 103 punt returns with a 10.5 yard average and three return scores. Later he played for the New Orleans Saints and other teams across nine NFL seasons.
What has he done since retiring from playing?
After football Kennison returned to Baton Rouge and stayed involved with LSU. He worked as LSU Director of Player Development. Later he served as a senior account executive with LSU Sports Properties. He remains active in community programs and family life. In addition he plans a relaunch of the podcast Geaux 2 Legends.
What is Eddie Kennison’s lasting legacy?
Kennison’s legacy blends athletic achievement with hometown heart. Fans recall sudden long plays and game changing returns. Coaches praise his work ethic, and teammates remember his competitive edge. Looking ahead his podcast and community work will extend his influence. As a result his story keeps inspiring younger players and loyal fans.