THIBODAUX, La. – A pair of Nicholls State University football players will look to continue their playing careers at the professional level in the National Football League (NFL) as defensive lineman Tevin Lawson signed a rookie free agent deal with the Los Angeles Chargers, and cornerback Christian Boutte received a camp invite from the Oakland Raiders.
 
Lawson, a native of Denham Springs, spent two years with the Colonel program after transferring from TCU. After sitting out 2016, Lawson made a significant impact in his lone season at Nicholls, helping the Colonel defense to a No. 3 ranking in the Southland in total yards allowed, points allowed, and sacks. He finished with 25 tackles, recovered a fumble and blocked one kick.
 
Boutte was a four-year letterman after graduating from Opelousas High. He started three years at corner and ranked 11th this season in passes defended with 10. His interception in the fourth quarter sealed the victory in the Colonels' rivalry game against Northwestern State. Boutte closed out his senior campaign with 23 tackles.
 
Nicholls begins its 2018 season at Kansas on Sept. 1.
 
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