LSU has emerged as a quarterback factory in recent years. Heisman winners Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels quickly found success at the NFL level. Garrett Nussmeier hopes to be the next premier signal-caller out of Baton Rouge. He entered last season with big shoes to fill, replacing Daniels. Nussmeier largely lived up to the reputation that comes with being the Tigers’ quarterback. 2024 was a mixed bag for both Nussmeier and LSU in general. He showed flashes of elite play, along with some room for improvement. Can Nussmeier elevate to a Heisman-caliber player, and where does he fit in the 2026 quarterback class?
2026 NFL Draft: Garrett Nussmeier Player Profile
Background
Nussmeier was a four-star recruit and the 19th-ranked quarterback in the Class of 2021. After playing high school ball at Marcus(Texas), he committed to LSU. He appeared in four games as a true freshman, most notably against Arkansas. Nussmeier took over early for Max Johnson and completed 18 of 31 attempts for 179 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in a 16-13 loss. Brian Kelly took over the program in 2022 and brought in Daniels to command the offense. Nussmeier served as the backup but saw his fair share of playing time. Daniels exited the SEC Championship due to injury, and Nussmeier stepped in and completed 15 of 27 passes for 294 yards, two touchdowns, and a pick in a 50-30 loss to Georgia. He saw more action in the Citrus Bowl against Purdue, completing 11 of 15 attempts for 173 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
Daniels returned in 2023 and claimed the Heisman, while Nussmeier remained his backup. His first career start came in the Reliaquest Bowl against Wisconsin. He threw for 395 yards, three touchdowns, and a pick in a 35-31 victory over Wisconsin. In an era where several players hit the transfer portal for more playing time, Nussmeier waited for his opportunity. The opportunity came in 2024, when he took over as the Tigers’ starter. In 13 games, he completed 64.2% of his passes for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.
Strengths
Dec 31, 2024; Houston, TX, USA; LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (13) throws a pass during the first half against the Baylor Bears at NRG Stadium. The Tigers defeat the Bears 44-31. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
Nussmeier isn’t afraid to push the ball down the field, and he has the arm talent and accuracy to do so. His arm strength is impressive, and he generates velocity to make NFL-caliber throws routinely. Nussmeier’s an accurate passer who puts the ball on the right shoulder of his target away from coverage. His mechanics are smooth, and he displays good mobility in the pocket. His ability to throw on the run is as good as any prospect in this class, allowing him to create splash plays in chaos. Nussmeier levels his throws well, helping him fit passes into the soft spots of zone coverage. He also puts good touch on his passes when needed, paired with his impressive velocity.
Weaknesses
While his pocket mobility is impressive, Nussmeier isn’t much of a scrambler. He isn’t a statue, but he isn’t a player who scares defenses as a runner. The biggest concern with Nussmeier is the turnovers, throwing 12 interceptions in 2024. He can be reckless at times and force passes that get him into trouble. His tendency to hang onto the ball when the play breaks down can be a positive, but also a negative that leads to sacks. This can be improved upon by being more consistent in working through progressions. Nussmeier is on the smaller end of quarterbacks, measuring at 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds.
Overview
Nussmeier has many of the traits NFL teams look for in a franchise quarterback. His combination of accuracy and arm talent makes him a likely first-round pick. Cutting down on negative plays, particularly interceptions, is the main area of improvement to watch for in 2025. Nussmeier is the caliber of player that can be a serious contender for the Heisman, and the schedule provides plenty of opportunities for signature moments. His game fits the mold of the modern pocket passer. He isn’t a great athlete, but he is mobile enough to extend plays. Nussmeier resembles Tony Romo with his above-average arm strength and ability to throw on the move. 2025 will give him the chance to grow as a player and potentially be the top quarterback prospect come April.
Main Image: Thomas Shea – Imagn Images