Garrett Nussmeier, the former LSU quarterback, has been a challenging prospect for analysts to pin down in the 2026 NFL Draft cycle. Initially pegged as a first-round talent before the 2025 season, his trajectory took a hit due to an oblique injury during fall camp.
As it stands, Nussmeier is now seen as a Day 2 pick, trailing behind Alabama’s Ty Simpson and Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza in most rankings. ESPN’s draft guru, Mel Kiper, has added another twist by ranking Penn State’s Drew Allar above Nussmeier, a surprising shift from the usual consensus.
Both Nussmeier and Allar faced adversity in 2025, with injuries derailing their seasons. Allar’s campaign ended prematurely with a broken ankle in Week 7.
The key difference between the two lies in their natural abilities. Allar, at 6’5” and 235 pounds, boasts a powerful arm and decent athleticism.
In contrast, Nussmeier, standing 6’1” and weighing 202 pounds, has a solid but not elite arm and isn't known for his athletic prowess.
However, Nussmeier shines in other areas. His gunslinger mentality can be risky, but it also highlights his superior processing skills and anticipation. His accuracy is another strong point, setting him apart from Allar.
When projecting their NFL futures, Kiper’s preference for Allar makes some sense. Nussmeier’s physical attributes might limit his potential as a top-tier starter, whereas Allar’s arm strength and adequate athleticism offer fewer constraints.
Kiper’s ranking suggests that NFL teams might be more intrigued by Allar’s potential than the media narrative indicates. With Kiper’s connections, it’s possible he’s picking up signals that Allar is rated higher by some teams. As we approach the draft, it will be fascinating to see how the destinies of these two quarterbacks unfold.