Garrett Nussmeier Draft Grade | Round 7, Pick 33 | FanVerdicts

A+

Top 3%Pick Grade

Pick Context

Market Value

Steal

Position

QB · Premium Position

Decision Grade reflects market consensus at the moment of the pick. Teams often have private information the consensus does not.

Scouting Report

Big Board Rank: #82 · Day 2 Value

Garrett Nussmeier enters the 2026 NFL Draft as a polished pocket passer with three years of starting experience in the SEC. The California native took over LSU's offense in 2023 and steadily improved each season, culminating in leading the Tigers to an SEC Championship game appearance. Nussmeier's game is built around exceptional pre-snap recognition, pinpoint accuracy in the intermediate passing game, and outstanding poise under pressure. His ability to manipulate safeties with his eyes and deliver strikes into tight windows makes him a natural fit for West Coast and RPO-heavy offenses. However, concerns about his arm strength on deep outs and limited mobility in today's dual-threat quarterback landscape have kept him from first-round consideration despite his high football IQ and leadership qualities.

Strengths

+Elite pre-snap recognition allows him to consistently identify defensive coverages and communicate protection adjustments at the line, showcasing advanced football IQ beyond his years.

+Exceptional accuracy on intermediate routes between the numbers, particularly on dig routes, comebacks, and seam patterns where he consistently places the ball away from defenders.

+Outstanding pocket presence and internal clock, rarely taking unnecessary sacks and showing the ability to subtly step up or slide within the pocket to avoid rush lanes.

+Natural leader with excellent command of the huddle and sideline presence, earning respect from teammates and coaches through his work ethic and football knowledge.

+Quick release with consistent mechanics, getting the ball out in 2.4 seconds on quick game concepts and maintaining compact delivery under pressure.

+Advanced understanding of route concepts and timing, showing the ability to anticipate receivers coming out of breaks and deliver the ball to spots before separation occurs.

+Excellent touch on back-shoulder throws and fade routes, demonstrating the ability to drop passes over linebackers and under safeties in the intermediate void.

+Strong red zone performer with good decision-making on RPOs and quick slants, showing patience to let routes develop in compressed field situations.

+Consistent ball security with only 8 interceptions over his final two seasons, showing improved decision-making and willingness to take checkdowns when deep shots aren't available.

+Film study habits and preparation are exceptional, often identifying defensive tendencies and communicating hot routes based on pre-game scouting reports.

Weaknesses

NFL Comparison: Gardner Minshew

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