The Los Angeles Rams are seeking long-term answers for their field general, with veteran star Matthew Stafford remaining under center at least for the 2026 season. However, the uncertainty about how much longer he will play has prompted speculation about a succession plan.
With multiple draft picks and a roster still built to compete, the franchise could begin planning for life after its Super Bowl-winning quarterback. That has led to growing interest in the 2026 NFL Draft’s quarterback class. Among the names gaining traction is LSU signal-caller Garrett Nussmeier, a prospect viewed as both intriguing and polarizing.
Rams Projected to Draft Garrett Nussmeier as Matthew Stafford’s Successor
In his latest mock draft, PFSN analyst T.J. Randall projected the Rams to use their first-round selection on Nussmeier, signaling a proactive approach to the future of the position. Randall highlighted that Los Angeles could prioritize a quarterback who aligns with their offensive philosophy while offering long-term upside.
“As we’ve said, Nussmeier going earlier is well within the range out outcomes. But I think the Rams would be happy to pull the trigger on a signal caller who fits what they want to do offensively and has shown first-round talent when fully healthy,” Randall wrote.
His projection reflects both the uncertainty surrounding Stafford and the lack of a clear-cut second QB in this draft class behind the projected No. 1 pick, Fernando Mendoza; however, Alabama’s Ty Simpson is getting some air lately as the second overall pick.
On the PFSN Consensus Big Board, Nussmeier carries a grade of 78.33, ranks No. 162 overall, and is still viewed as a potential first-round selection despite the mixed evaluations.
How a 2025 Injury Impacted Garrett Nussmeier’s Draft Stock
Nussmeier’s profile is built on flashes of high-end ability combined with inconsistency. After spending three seasons as a backup at LSU, he stepped into a starting role and delivered a strong 2024 campaign, throwing for 4,052 yards with 29 touchdowns. However, his production dipped in the 2025 injury-laden season, recording 1,927 yards and 12 touchdowns, raising concerns among evaluators.
Even so, his raw tools remain appealing; the LSU hero also possesses the arm strength to attack all levels of the field and has shown the ability to anticipate throws and operate effectively within structured offenses.
Part of Nussmeier’s uneven trajectory can be traced to a core injury that impacted his 2025 season. The LSU quarterback later revealed how much the issue affected his ability to perform at a high level.
“It was rough,” Nussmeier said. “It was obviously a very hindering deal for a quarterback. Without getting too specific with everything that went on, it didn’t matter the distance of the throw. It was a lot of pain throwing the football. This happened day two of fall camp early in the season. It was kind of a yearly deal.”
He further explained that the root of the issue wasn’t fully diagnosed until much later, limiting his preparation and development time.
“Didn’t figure out what it truly was until about two months ago now,” Nussmeier added. “Only had about nine days to prepare for the Senior Bowl and get right for that. Just been retraining, trying to learn how to throw again from the ground up and get that back right.”
For the Rams, drafting Nussmeier would not be about immediate impact but long-term planning. With veteran quarterback Stafford’s future uncertain, head coach Sean McVay expressed hope that he would continue playing. Still, Los Angeles cannot afford to be caught unprepared at the most important position.
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According to PFSN’s Offense Impact Metric, the Rams offense delivered a strong performance in 2025. The team finished with a 12-5 record and posted an impact score of 92.3, which ranked No. 1 in the league. Overall, the defense was placed 14th and received an A- grade.
If Nussmeier returns to full health and refines his consistency, he could develop into a viable successor under McVay’s system. With time to learn behind Stafford, the Rams would be betting on upside rather than immediate results.
