LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has decided to return for his senior season rather than declare for the NFL draft
A move that will keep him with the Tigers and provide him with another year to boost his draft prospects.
In a video shared on social media, Nussmeier reflected on his journey, stating that his dream has always been to play in the NFL, but he believes God brought him to LSU for a reason. He added that he felt his time at LSU wasn’t over yet, and that’s why he decided to stay.
Nussmeier, in his first season as a starter after spending three years as a backup, has thrown for 3,739 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions going into the Texas Bowl. He has completed 63.7% of his passes, making 491 attempts—the second-most in LSU history and third-most nationally this year.
While LSU has faced challenges with player turnover—losing key starters on the offensive line, at tight end, running back, and receiver—Nussmeier’s return offers stability at quarterback. If he had declared for the draft, LSU would have been forced to find a new starting quarterback, possibly through the transfer portal.
Nussmeier had an impressive season, ranking third in LSU history for passing yards, behind only Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels. He also ranked sixth in the nation for passing yards per game. However, he struggled with turnovers, especially during a rough six-quarter stretch midseason, where he threw nine interceptions, including five in a span of six quarters against Texas A&M and Alabama.
Despite his arm strength, Nussmeier will need to improve his deep-ball accuracy, as he completed just 34.6% of passes over 20 yards this season. LSU hopes to address this aspect of his game in the offseason. Head coach Brian Kelly noted that Nussmeier is highly committed to improving and that the first year of competition has given him valuable experience.
While Nussmeier was projected as a potential mid-to-late Day 3 pick in the 2024 NFL draft, returning for his senior year gives him an opportunity to raise his draft stock and aim for an early-round selection. His performance this season placed him in mid-season discussions as a top prospect, though inconsistencies led to mixed evaluations. Now, he hopes to make a leap similar to that of Burrow and Daniels in their respective second seasons.
“I am fully committed to bringing this university a championship,” Nussmeier said, promising to give his best every day until that goal is achieved.