Skip to main content
LSU

LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier earns high spot in ESPN’s 2026 QB rankings

Untitled design (1)by:Julie Boudwin•06/22/25
LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier
Maria Lysaker | Imagn Images

The 2026 football season hasn’t even started yet, but the buzz around LSU’s quarterback room is far from quieting down. After Jayden Daniels became a top-three pick in the 2024 draft class, another Tiger is already emerging as a future first-rounder.

Garrett Nussmeier, who waited patiently behind Daniels for two seasons, is now commanding the spotlight as LSU’s next NFL-caliber signal caller. ESPN’s Matt Miller and Jordan Reid both placed Nussmeier among the top five quarterback prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft in their early rankings released Friday.

Miller slotted Nussmeier as the No. 2 QB on his list, while Reid had him at No. 3 — the highest ranking for any SEC quarterback.

After finally taking over the reins in 2024, Nussmeier made the most of his opportunity. The 6-foot-2 quarterback threw for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns, showcasing his arm talent, poise in the pocket, and deep understanding of the Tigers’ offense. While he did toss 12 interceptions, his ability to make big throws and stretch the field has scouts and analysts alike buzzing.

Nussmeier’s numbers were even more impressive when considering the context: it was his first year as a full-time starter in the SEC, replacing the Heisman Trophy winner and stepping into a leadership role on a team with College Football Playoff aspirations.

Though not considered a true dual-threat, Nussmeier has the physical tools to develop that part of his game. Despite finishing the season with negative rushing yards — largely due to sacks — analysts believe his strong frame gives him the potential to become a more balanced offensive weapon in 2025.

And he’ll have plenty of help around him to do so.

LSU’s offense remains loaded with talent heading into the fall, including future draft targets at wide receiver, running back, tight end, and on the offensive line. The Tigers’ QB1 will be surrounded by weapons, which should only bolster his case as one of the nation’s premier passers.

Other QBs also ranked by ESPN: Cade Klubnik, Clemson; Fernando Mendoza, Indiana; LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina; Drew Allar, Penn State and John Mateer, Oklahoma.

Nussmeier, Klubnik, Sellers, Mateer, along with many other college QBS, will all be in Thibodaux next week for the Manning Passing Academy.

Nussmeier and the LSU Tigers kick off the 2025 season on the road at Clemson on Aug. 30 at 6:30 p.m.

You may also like