The 2026 NFL Draft quarterback class continues to be a strong point of deliberation in the pre-draft as analysts attempt to separate a tightly packed group of prospects. While names like Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson have consistently occupied the top tier of discussions, the race behind them remains fluid.
Several QBs are competing to establish themselves as the next-best option, with performances, traits, and upside all factoring into evaluations. Among those drawing increasing attention is LSU’s star signal-caller Garrett Nussmeier. Now, a former Super Bowl champion has weighed in with a strong opinion on where he belongs in the pecking order.
Why Jason McCourty Sees Garrett Nussmeier as the No. 3 Quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft
During a recent appearance on ESPN’s “Get Up”, former NFL player Jason McCourty offered insight into how teams assess QBs beyond just production. He explained that franchises often prioritize specific traits they believe can be developed at the next level, rather than focusing solely on current polish.
“I really like Nussmeier and his ability,” McCourty said. “There’s a part of courage with him. You see him go out there, he’s going to try to make the play and force it to happen.”
McCourty elaborated by pointing to Nussmeier’s mentality and willingness to take risks as qualities that stand out on film. While those traits can lead to inconsistent results, they also reveal a QB unafraid of high-pressure moments.
“Sometimes that doesn’t work out well, but sometimes you see those special moments. So Nussmeier is a guy that I really like to potentially be in that third spot,” McCourty said.
That evaluation aligns with how Nussmeier is currently viewed across draft boards. On the PFSN Big Consensus Board, Nussmeier holds a 78.43 grade, ranking No. 188 overall and fourth among QBs. While those numbers suggest he is not among the elite prospects, they still position him firmly within the broader draft conversation.
From a performance standpoint, his 2025 season paints a mixed picture. Nussmeier recorded a 75.9 score, ranking 110th overall and earning a C grade on the PFSN CFB QB Impact Metrics, which reflects inconsistency across his campaign.
Scouting evaluations further highlight why opinions on Nussmeier vary widely. According to PFSN’s report, “Garrett Nussmeier is one of the most polarizing QB prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, particularly after a 2025 season that saw him benched down the stretch…He doesn’t have elite athleticism or creation ability, and his arm is middling.”
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However, the same report also points to the competitive edge that continues to intrigue evaluators.
“But in spite of these limiting elements, there’s no denying his gamer mentality. Defying his frame, Nussmeier isn’t afraid to stand in and deliver tough throws under pressure, nor is he scared of getting out in the flats and operating off-platform,” the report mentioned.
That aggressive style, though, comes with risk.
“The ‘gunslinger’ moniker swings both ways for Nussmeier, who is prone to taking ill-advised risks more often than preferred, and his accuracy did not progress in 2025,” the report noted.
Even with those concerns, Nussmeier’s resume includes 57 career touchdowns and some poise of high-level play that make him an intriguing mid-round option. Teams seeking developmental QBs, such as those looking to add depth without using a premium pick, could view him as a worthy option.
