Garrett Nussmeier: Rising NFL Draft Prospect in 2026

LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is gaining momentum as a potential top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, positioning himself as a strong contender for the second quarterback selected after projected No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza of Indiana. Despite a challenging 2025 season impacted by injury, Nussmeier’s talent and potential are attracting significant attention from NFL scouts.

Nussmeier’s Path to the NFL

Nussmeier, the son of longtime coach Doug Nussmeier, initially redshirted in 2021 before serving as a backup to Jayden Daniels in 2022 and 2023. He took over as the starting quarterback for the Tigers in 2024, showcasing his abilities by leading the SEC in completions (337) and attempts (525) for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns. USA Today

2025 Season and Draft Stock

While expectations were high for Nussmeier to lead LSU to a national championship in 2025, his season was hampered by an abdominal tear sustained during the summer, limiting his playing time to nine games. Despite this setback, he has demonstrated progress in the lead-up to the draft. PFF

Strengths and Weaknesses

Nussmeier is described as a polished and confident passer with a strong foundation in pre-snap reads and quick processing skills, benefiting from his upbringing with a quarterback father. However, scouts note his average arm strength and below-average stature (6’1″, 205 pounds) as potential challenges at the NFL level. He is known for his willingness to attack the middle of the field but also exhibits a tendency for turnovers, with a high turnover-worthy play rate. PFF

NFL Draft Outlook

According to Bucky Brooks of NFL.com, Nussmeier has risen in the rankings of 2026 NFL Draft quarterback prospects, currently ranked as the third-best available. NFL.com The 2026 quarterback class is considered less deep than recent years, but Nussmeier possesses the potential to develop into a long-term starter. He currently ranks behind Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) and Ty Simpson (Alabama). Carson Beck (Miami) and Drew Allar (Penn State) round out the top five.

Key Takeaways

• Garrett Nussmeier is a rising prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, currently ranked as the third-best quarterback.
• His 2025 season was impacted by injury, but he has shown progress in his development.
• Nussmeier’s strengths include his quick processing, pre-snap reads, and confidence.
• His weaknesses include average arm strength and a tendency for turnovers.