The LSU Tigers faced a challenging 2025 football season, leading to significant changes. The team parted ways with head coach Brian Kelly and made headlines by recruiting Lane Kiffin from Ole Miss, even as the Rebels were making a Playoff push.
Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier had a tough year, struggling with injuries and inconsistent performances, which impacted his NFL Draft prospects. Once considered a potential first-round pick, Nussmeier is now projected to be selected on Day 2.
In ESPN’s Matt Miller’s comprehensive 7-round mock draft, he predicts the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are hosting the 2026 draft, will select Nussmeier in the second round (No. 53 overall). Miller highlights Nussmeier’s fit with the Steelers, noting:
While Aaron Rodgers has yet to reveal his 2026 plans, the Steelers’ quiet approach in free agency suggests he might return. At 42, Rodgers is nearing the end of his career, and the team lacks a clear successor. Nussmeier’s arm talent and accuracy, especially in a West Coast offense, make him a promising candidate for Mike McCarthy’s system, where he could excel in short-to-intermediate passing schemes.
The big question remains: Will Nussmeier end up in Pittsburgh, potentially learning from Rodgers for a year? We’ll have the answer by the end of next month.
Meanwhile, Nussmeier’s LSU teammate, cornerback Mansoor Delane, is making waves, projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The anticipation around Delane’s draft position is generating buzz in the latest Kalshi market.