The Kansas City Chiefs selected LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier with the 249th pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
Nussmeier's drop in the draft was shocking, but he can be a long-time backup option for the Chiefs. The selection gives Kansas City a project with big-armed potential who can create stability behind Patrick Mahomes beyond the upcoming season.
Nussmeier's an undersized pocket passer with strong arm talent and plays with a gunslinger's mindset. He is willing to take chances downfield to make explosive plays, but he is also susceptible to turnovers. In 2024, he was a finalist for the Manning Award as the nation's top quarterback. He finished that campaign with 4,052 passing yards, and he tied for 10th with 29 passing touchdowns in 13 games.
Welcome to the QB room, @Garrettnuss13!With the 249th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, we have selected QB Garrett Nussmeier πͺ pic.twitter.com/2VjOxur2IV
Last season, Nussmeier started 9 games, throwing for 1,927 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions, and rushing for a touchdown. He notably suffered an abdominal injury that was aggravated in November, severely affecting his impact and progress throughout the season. He served as team captain for the talented LSU team.
This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs select LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier at No. 249 in 2026 NFL Draft