FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in February. Here’s a look at LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.
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2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Garrett Nussmeier
Garrett Nussmeier (QB – LSU)
6’1″ – 205 lbs.
Background
Four-star recruit who played sparingly before redshirting in 2021, then started one game over the next two years before taking over the full-time starting role in 2024. Went 9-4 that season, with 4,043 yards (64.2%, 7.7 YPA), 29 touchdowns, and twelve interceptions before starting nine games this past year, dealing with an abdominal injury and going 5-4 with 1,927 yards (67.4%, 6.7), twelve touchdowns, and five interceptions. Father is Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier, who also played quarterback for the Saints and a few other teams.
Positives
Team captain who has pro bloodlines and at least one successful SEC season under his belt. Sets up quick with a nice base. Gets the ball out on time on rhythm throws. Pretty good decision-maker who effectively identifies and takes advantage of underneath opportunities. When his primary read is open, shows the ability to work through progressions and find targets. Shows the confidence to test defenses into coverage, rather than waiting for wide-open opportunities. Has the pocket movement and poise to climb and buy time for throws underneath, with a bit of escapability to his right. Has a high release point and smooth delivery. In the short to intermediate range, passes have a bit of zip to them, especially when attacking the middle of the field. Throws a catchable ball with appropriate touch when appropriate. Gets air underneath his sideline/deep shots, and shows some anticipation when working down the field, with the ability to drop the occasional throw into a bucket. Not very mobile, but the team did give the ball on some designed runs, and is capable of completing passes when rolling to either side.
Negatives
Injury-plagued 2025 season didn’t meet the expectations he set in 2024. On the small side for a pro quarterback. Would like to see more consistent weight transfer into his throws, and overall mechanics from the waist down. Confidence can veer into risky throws which might be a bit optimistic given his closer to average arm talent; reads the field and makes decisions like a more talented quarterback. Deep balls tend to flutter and hang in the air quite a bit; not going to rip downfield passes into tight windows. Essentially a pure passer type who doesn’t have much athleticism to buy time against (or escape from) pressure.
Summary
A relatively polished and poised processor and decision-maker from the pocket, who throws a catchable ball with good placement and at least adequate zip. However, physical and athletic tools are closer to average, and can occasionally get into trouble by playing beyond his skillset, which might put a ceiling on his potential as a pro. Subpar 2025 campaign in which he worked through an abdominal injury and ended up on the bench will hurt his stock. Probably more of a mid-round game manager type.
Projection: Round 4-5
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