Nussmeier Falls To Chiefs In Draft Slide After Once Holding Top Pick Buzz

Former LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier experienced one of the most notable draft slides of the 2026 NFL Draft, eventually being selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the seventh round. Once considered a potential first-round and even top overall pick candidate, his stock dropped significantly following a challenging final college season.

Kansas City ended his fall with the No. 249 overall selection, placing him just eight picks ahead of the draft’s final choice. The pick officially made him the last quarterback selected in this year’s class.

The selection also meant Nussmeier was taken later than several other quarterbacks, including Rutgers signal-caller Athan Kaliakmanis, who went 223rd overall. That contrast highlighted how dramatically perceptions of Nussmeier shifted over the past year.

Despite the slide, Nussmeier now enters the NFL joining a quarterback room led by superstar Patrick Mahomes under head coach Andy Reid, offering him a developmental opportunity at the professional level.

1. From First-Round Buzz To Late-Round Reality

Not long ago, Nussmeier was viewed in a much different light. He had drawn attention as a potential early first-round selection based on earlier flashes of high-level play at LSU. However, his final season in Baton Rouge did not match those expectations. The offensive environment shifted significantly, and consistency became an issue throughout the year. Statistically, his production declined, as he threw just 12 touchdowns after recording 29 the previous season. He also failed to reach the 2,000-yard passing mark, finishing with 1,927 yards. That drop in output played a key role in reshaping his draft projection, moving him steadily down boards as the season progressed.

2. Injuries And Evaluation Concerns Impact Stock

One of the key factors in Nussmeier’s regression was an undisclosed nagging injury he later acknowledged affected his performance. The issue limited his ability to build rhythm and consistency throughout the season. Compounding those challenges was a coaching transition, as LSU head coach Brian Kelly was dismissed, creating additional instability within the program. Evaluators also pointed to technical concerns in his game. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein noted issues with decision-making and processing defenses, which impacted his ability to consistently execute at a high level. Those concerns led many projections to place him outside the early rounds, despite his arm talent and earlier production suggesting higher potential.

3. Chiefs Offer Developmental Opportunity Behind Mahomes

Despite his draft slide, Nussmeier now joins one of the NFL’s most stable quarterback environments. He enters a system led by Patrick Mahomes and coached by Andy Reid, widely regarded for developing quarterbacks. Kansas City’s quarterback room also includes depth options such as Justin Fields and Jake Haener, creating a competitive but structured environment for development. For Nussmeier, the opportunity is less about immediate impact and more about refinement. His arm talent and college experience give him tools to develop within a proven offensive system. While his draft position reflects uncertainty about his readiness, the Chiefs’ track record suggests he will be given time to adjust and grow.