Will Garrett Nussmeier play for LSU again next season? This is what he said.
After LSU’s season-closing victory over Oklahoma, the team now shifts focus to the future, particularly the quarterback position.
Redshirt junior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier delivered one of his finest performances of the season, showcasing resilience after a second-quarter shoulder injury. He returned to lead LSU to a decisive 20-point win, throwing for 277 yards and three touchdowns, including several deep passes that highlighted his skill. This standout game has sparked speculation about Nussmeier’s future—whether he will enter the upcoming NFL Draft or return for another season at LSU, as he still has one year of eligibility remaining.
“I haven’t made a decision yet,” Nussmeier said postgame. “I wanted to focus on the season first. What I do know is how much I love LSU—this team, this school, and this organization.” He added that discussions about his future would begin early in the week.
Head coach Brian Kelly has consistently emphasized Nussmeier’s development, noting that this season marked his first as a college starting quarterback. Despite midseason struggles, Kelly has urged patience, pointing to Nussmeier’s flashes of brilliance as evidence of his potential. Kelly expressed optimism about Nussmeier returning in 2025, stating, “When he hopefully comes back next year, he can take that next step.”
Earlier in the season, Nussmeier was projected as a potential first-round pick in the NFL Draft, but a rough midseason stretch dampened his draft stock. However, he rebounded strongly in LSU’s final two games, achieving over 70% completion rates in both—his highest against SEC opponents this year.
Reflecting on his progress, Nussmeier said, “I hoped to be a better player now than I was in September, and I think I’ve shown that growth.”
After spending three years as a backup—including two behind Jayden Daniels, a future Heisman winner and first-round NFL pick—this season was Nussmeier’s first as a starter. He finished the year with 3,735 passing yards and 26 touchdowns, ranking sixth and 12th nationally in those categories.
LSU’s quarterback situation becomes even more critical following the decommitment of Bryce Underwood, the No. 1 prospect in the 2025 recruiting class. With Nussmeier’s potential return, LSU could secure stability at the position, while he continues to build on the momentum of his late-season performances.
As LSU looks ahead, Nussmeier’s decision will shape the team’s trajectory. For now, the quarterback remains focused on evaluating his options, aiming to balance his love for LSU with the opportunities the NFL may offer.
