LSU's Garrett Nussmeier Wins Senior Bowl MVP After Impressive Showing

The former Tigers QB boosted his NFL Draft stock with a standout performance in Mobile.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 5:55pm

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LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier capped off a difficult 2025 season by earning MVP honors at the 2026 Senior Bowl. Nussmeier completed 5 of 8 passes for 60 yards and 1 touchdown, while also showcasing his mobility with a rushing touchdown. The performance could help change the narrative around Nussmeier's NFL Draft stock, which had dropped after a tough 2025 campaign for the Tigers.

Why it matters

Nussmeier was once considered a potential top overall pick, but his draft stock fell after a disappointing 2025 season at LSU. His Senior Bowl MVP showing gives him a chance to boost his draft position, potentially making him a first-round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The details

Nussmeier only attempted 8 passes in the Senior Bowl, but he made the most of his limited opportunities. He completed 5 of those passes for 60 yards and 1 touchdown, while also rushing for a score. The performance allowed Nussmeier to cap off a rough 2025 season on a high note and potentially change the narrative around his NFL Draft stock.

  • Nussmeier returned to LSU on December 11, 2024, fueling Heisman Trophy and potential No. 1 overall pick chatter.
  • LSU started the 2025 season 4-0, including a win over 2024 College Football Playoff team Clemson.
  • On September 27, 2025, LSU lost to an Ole Miss team led by future LSU head coach Lane Kiffin, and the Tigers' season spiraled from there.
  • LSU stumbled to a 5-4 record in 2025, including three straight losses, and head coach Brian Kelly was fired before the Alabama game on November 8.
  • Nussmeier played in only 9 games in 2025, throwing for 1,927 yards and 12 touchdowns while rushing for -57 yards.

The players

Garrett Nussmeier

The former LSU quarterback who won MVP honors at the 2026 Senior Bowl, boosting his NFL Draft stock after a difficult 2025 season.

Brian Kelly

The former LSU head coach who was fired during the 2025 season.

Lane Kiffin

The former Ole Miss head coach who led his team to a victory over LSU in 2025, and is now the new head coach at LSU.

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What’s next

Nussmeier will need to continue to impress at the NFL Scouting Combine in March to solidify his status as a potential first-round draft pick.

The takeaway

Garrett Nussmeier's Senior Bowl MVP performance gives him a chance to rebound from a difficult 2025 season and potentially regain his status as a top NFL Draft prospect. His ability to showcase his skills on a national stage could be a pivotal moment in his journey to the NFL.