In the ever-competitive world of the NFL, securing a victory is no small feat, especially when your team is struggling at the quarterback position. This has been the Cleveland Browns' narrative for the past 25 years, as they've cycled through a myriad of quarterbacks with limited success.
The Browns have explored every avenue, from high draft picks to seasoned veterans, but their quarterback room remains one of the weakest in the league. With the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, the pressure is mounting for Cleveland to make a decisive move at quarterback.
Quarterback Prospect: Garrett Nussmeier
Profile:
- Height/Weight: 6-foot-2, 203 pounds
- College: LSU Tigers
2025 Season Stats:
- 9 games
- 67.4% completion rate
- 1,927 passing yards
- 12 touchdowns, 5 interceptions
- 133.8 quarterback rating
Career Stats:
- 40 games
- 64.0% completion rate
- 7,699 passing yards
- 52 touchdowns, 24 interceptions
- 138.6 quarterback rating
Draft Projections:
- Average "Big Board" Position: 86th overall, projected third round
- The Draft Network’s Grade: Round 2 - Winning Starter
Expert Opinions
Lance Zierlein, NFL.com: Nussmeier is an undersized pocket passer with undeniable arm talent, yet he struggles with reading defenses and progressing through options.
His gunslinger mentality often compromises ball security, although his compact release and ability to throw from various angles are impressive. While he can dazzle with one throw, turnovers frequently follow, raising questions about consistency.
His mobility helps him avoid sacks, but teams will need to weigh his mistakes and injury concerns against his potential upside.
Todd McShay, The Ringer: Despite his size and durability issues, Nussmeier's instincts, anticipation, and ball placement offer promise.
His competitive nature was on display against Oklahoma in 2024 when he returned from a shoulder injury to lead LSU to victory. However, his reluctance to slide at the end of runs is worrisome given his aggressive style and frame.
Teams might draft him as a backup with hopes of developing him into a starter, drawing comparisons to players like Tony Romo or Gardner Minshew II.
Potential Fit with the Browns
Once considered a potential first-round pick, Nussmeier's draft stock has dipped due to injuries that limited his final college season. With five years at LSU, he brings experience, but questions remain about his developmental ceiling.
The Browns are in dire need of a quarterback upgrade, but they must aim higher than a Minshew-like prospect. If they draft a quarterback, it could mean the end of the road for Dillon Gabriel in Cleveland, and possibly prompt Shedeur Sanders to seek opportunities elsewhere.
In summary, the Browns face a pivotal decision. Whether they choose Nussmeier or another prospect, their choice will be crucial in shaping the future of the franchise.