Full Breakdown
Kansas City Chiefs Draft LSU Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier in Seventh Round
4/26/2026, 10:15:55 PM
Chiefs Select Garrett Nussmeier with 249th Overall Pick
The Kansas City Chiefs selected former LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier with the 249th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft, adding a young QB to a roster led by Patrick Mahomes and coached by Andy Reid.
Background & Context
After a 2024 season with 4,000+ passing yards, Nussmeier was projected as an early first-round pick. Injuries in 2025 limited him to nine games, 1,927 yards and 12 touchdowns, dropping his draft stock. He ended his LSU career with 5,979 yards, 41 touchdowns and 17 interceptions in 22 starts. His father, former NFL quarterback and Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier, mentored him.
Key Figures & Groups
Garrett Nussmeier – LSU quarterback; Andy Reid – Chiefs head coach; Patrick Mahomes – Chiefs starter; Doug Nussmeier – Saints offensive coordinator and Garrett’s father; Kansas City Chiefs; LSU Tigers.
Data & Statistics
2024: >4,000 yards, 41 TDs, 17 INTs. 2025: 1,927 yards, 12 TDs in nine games. LSU career: 5,979 yards, 41 TDs, 17 INTs, 22 starts. Size: 6-ft-2, 203 lb. Draft: 7th round, 249th overall.
Official Statements & Responses
The Chiefs announced the pick, noting confidence Nussmeier will earn offseason reps if healthy and praising his ‘NFL-caliber arm strength and high football IQ.’
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts cite recurring injuries, forced throws that produced 12 interceptions in his best season, modest size for a pocket passer, and a habit of locking onto receivers instead of progressing routes, contributing to his slide to the seventh round.
Why It Matters / Impact
The Chiefs’ reputation for quarterback development makes Nussmeier a potential long-term asset. Learning from Reid and Mahomes could ready him as a backup or future starter, while also providing depth as Mahomes recovers and Justin Fields competes for the backup role.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Pre-draft analyses listed Nussmeier as a first-round prospect, yet he was selected in the seventh round. The Chiefs have not released development plans, contract terms, or roster status for 2026.
Verbatim Quotes
> “I’m just grateful that I have this opportunity. I can only imagine. I’m so excited to be in a room with those guys, coach Reid and his unbelievable offensive mind and sitting behind Patrick and steal some things from him and see the game through his eyes. It’s going to be an unbelievable experience for me.” — Garrett Nussmeier, quarterback
What’s Next
Nussmeier will join the Chiefs’ offseason program, attend rookie minicamp and may learn from Mahomes in preseason. His health will determine his role as the team finalizes the 2026 quarterback depth chart.
