TWSN writer and editor currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and originally from Upstate New York. Covering the NFL, NFL Draft, NBA, MLB, and Combat Sports
The Indianapolis Colts have spent the last few years searching for long-term stability at quarterback. Even with recently signing Daniel Jones to a two-year, $88 million extension, they still aren’t fully set for the future.
Jones is going to be their starting quarterback in 2026 once healthy, but with his Achilles rehab still ongoing, his exact return is still questionable.
It is also clear they have lost faith in Richardson with the ongoing trade discussions. This leaves the Colts with the need to find another option that could start in case Jones isn’t ready, or become the long-term solution if Jones plays differently after the injury.
That is what makes drafting Garrett Nussmeier logical.
TWSN Key Facts
Player: Garrett Nussmeier
School: LSU
Position: Quarterback
Potential Team: Indianapolis Colts
The Colts Still Need a Long-Term Answer at Quarterback
Jones may be the favorite for now, but he is not the kind of quarterback who should stop a team from investing in the future. Richardson still has upside, but if the Colts still are not fully convinced he can become the consistent franchise quarterback they hoped for, then adding another young passer makes perfect sense.
That is where Nussmeier becomes so intriguing.
Why Garrett Nussmeier Makes Sense for the Colts
Nussmeier enters the draft after a long LSU career in which he appeared in 40 games with 23 starts and finished with 7,699 passing yards, 52 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions. He also became just the third 7,000-yard passer in school history, which speaks to both his experience and production at a major program.
The biggest reason this fit works is that Indianapolis does not need Nussmeier to walk in and immediately save the franchise. That is a much better setup for a young quarterback than being thrown into a bad situation with unrealistic expectations.
If Jones opens the year as the starter, Nussmeier would have the chance to develop at the right pace. That matters for a quarterback like him, because his game is built on timing, rhythm, and confidence. He has enough arm talent to make NFL throws, but he would benefit from entering a structure where the coaching staff can sharpen his decision-making and let him grow.
Shane Steichen’s offense would also give Nussmeier a real chance to succeed. The Colts have weapons that can help a young quarterback, starting with Jonathan Taylor in the backfield. Josh Downs remains a reliable separator underneath, while Alec Pierce gives the offense a vertical threat. Tight end Tyler Warren also gives Indianapolis another big target to work the middle of the field.
That supporting cast could help Nussmeier settle in and play to his strengths. He does not have to be a superhero. He just has to distribute the ball, stay on schedule, and keep the offense moving.
Nussmeier would give Indianapolis a quarterback with real college production, strong experience in a major conference, and the kind of developmental profile that could pay off if given time. He would not need to carry the team immediately, but he could eventually become the most important player on the roster if everything clicks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Garrett Nussmeier?
Garrett Nussmeier is a quarterback from LSU and one of the more experienced passers in the 2026 NFL Draft class. He brings strong arm talent, SEC experience, and starting upside at the next level.
Why would the Colts consider drafting Garrett Nussmeier?
The Colts could consider Nussmeier because they still do not appear to have a fully settled long-term answer at quarterback. Drafting him would give Indianapolis another young option to develop behind its current veterans.
Would Garrett Nussmeier have to start right away for the Colts?
No, and that is part of why the fit makes sense. Indianapolis could allow him to sit, learn the offense, and develop at a steady pace instead of forcing him into action immediately.
What makes Garrett Nussmeier a good fit in Shane Steichen’s offense?
Nussmeier’s game fits well in a system that values timing, rhythm, and getting the ball out on schedule. With solid weapons around him, he could thrive as a distributor who keeps the offense efficient.
More Indianapolis Colts Content From TWSN
2026 Indianapolis Colts 7-Round NFL Mock Draft
Indianapolis Colts Give Daniel Jones Transition Tag: This Was The Sharp Move
NFL Prediction: Indianapolis Colts Trade Anthony Richardson to the Pittsburgh Steelers
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TWSN writer and editor currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and originally from Upstate New York. Covering the NFL, NFL Draft, NBA, MLB, and Combat Sports