The Kansas City Chiefs announced on Apr. 26 that they have selected former Louisiana State University quarterback Garrett Nussmeier with the No. 249 overall pick in the 2026 National Football League Draft.
Nussmeier’s addition is intended to strengthen the team’s quarterback lineup as he brings significant college experience and a strong football background. The Chiefs highlighted his performance over the last two seasons, during which he threw for a combined total of 41 touchdowns. In his first year as a starter in 2024, Nussmeier recorded 4,052 passing yards and 29 touchdowns across thirteen games. Despite injuries limiting his play in the following season, he still managed to achieve nearly two thousand passing yards and twelve touchdowns over nine starts.
Dane Brugler, a well-known draft analyst, ranked Nussmeier as the third-best quarterback prospect this year behind Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson. Brugler said: “His arm talent and command are foundational traits that generally translate well to the NFL.” Nussmeier was also named Most Valuable Player at this year’s Senior Bowl after completing five out of eight passes for fifty-seven yards and rushing for a touchdown during the game.
Nussmeier comes from a football family; his father Doug won the Walter Payton Award in 1993 before playing professionally in both the National Football League and Canadian Football League. Doug later became an offensive coordinator at various collegiate programs before taking on his current role with New Orleans. According to Dane Brugler’s draft guide, Garrett considers his father to be highly influential throughout his career.
Although he moved frequently growing up—living in twelve different places—Nussmeier regards Lake Charles, Louisiana as home. He played high school football both in Florida and Texas before accepting an offer from Louisiana State University.
With this selection, Kansas City looks to add depth at quarterback while preparing for future seasons.
