Former LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is one of the most polarizing prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class. Nussmeier’s final season at LSU was cut short by an abdominal injury that hampered one of the preseason Heisman Trophy favorites and damaged his draft stock.
Despite his uncertain draft stock, Nussmeier won the Senior Bowl MVP and was one of the best performers at the NFL Draft Combine in Indianapolis last month.
How Garrett Nussmeier Boosted His Draft Stock at LSU’s Pro Day
Nussmeier worked out in front of NFL scouts at LSU’s Pro Day on Monday and looked like his old self, completing 69 of his 72 passes. The Pittsburgh Steelers were heavily represented at the Tigers’ Pro Day, with director of player scouting Mark Sadowski in attendance.
While speaking to reporters after his workout, Nussmeier spoke about recovering from his injury woes in time for the NFL Draft.
“I’m feeling pretty good getting back to being myself,” Nussmeier said. “It has been, obviously, a long process of trying to do that, but I feel great. I felt like today, I kind of showed that in a sense. I kind of showed who I am when I’m healthy and able to actually throw the ball.
“It was just a freak deal. As I said before, I’m still not gonna get into the specifics of what the injury actually was, but it was just kind of a freak deal and an unfortunate thing.”
Steelers coach Mike McCarthy was supposed to attend LSU’s Pro Day, but he attended the funeral of former Green Bay Packers president Bob Harlan instead.
What Garrett Nussmeier Wanted NFL Teams to Know
While speaking to reporters after his workout in Baton Rouge, Nussmeier sent a confident message to NFL teams about his readiness for the league and revealed that he would watch the ceremony in New Orleans.
“I’m just telling these coaches that I want to prove that I belong in the NFL,” Nussmeier said. “I want to have an opportunity in whatever way it may be, whatever round it may be. I just want a chance to prove that I belong at the next level.”
“I don’t know if I can fully describe how I’m going to feel when my name gets called. I’m just looking forward to any team that’s going to give me an opportunity.”
In 9 games played for the Tigers last season, Nussmeier tallied 1,927 passing yards on 67.4% completion, resulting in 12 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. He earned a PFSN College QB Impact score of 75.9.
