Former LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier Wins Senior Bowl MVP

The quarterback's strong performance has boosted his NFL draft stock.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 10:31am

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Former LSU football quarterback Garrett Nussmeier was named MVP of the 2026 Senior Bowl on Saturday. Nussmeier, who was expected to be a top quarterback prospect before an injury-plagued 2025 season, impressed scouts with his athleticism and talent during the all-star game.

Why it matters

Nussmeier's Senior Bowl performance has helped rehabilitate his draft stock after a disappointing 2025 campaign. As a potential early-round pick, his success could have major implications for the LSU football program and his future in the NFL.

The details

Nussmeier only threw eight passes in the Senior Bowl, but his stat line wasn't the focus. Instead, scouts were impressed by his overall talent and athleticism, which were on full display. There were rumors of a camp injury that hampered Nussmeier in 2025, and the quarterback himself acknowledged he couldn't fully use his core to throw during that season.

  • Nussmeier was named Senior Bowl MVP on Saturday, February 1, 2026.
  • Nussmeier was expected to be a top quarterback prospect ahead of the 2025 season.

The players

Garrett Nussmeier

A former quarterback for the LSU football team who was named MVP of the 2026 Senior Bowl, boosting his NFL draft stock after an injury-plagued 2025 season.

Brian Kelly

The head coach of the LSU football team, who did not offer much clarity on Nussmeier's injury situation during the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“Nussmeier clearly wasn't healthy, though. There were rumors of a camp injury, but LSU head coach Brian Kelly didn't offer much clarity.”

— Will Rosenblatt, Author

“Nussmeier addressed the injury situation last week, indicating he essentially couldn't use his core to throw.”

— Will Rosenblatt, Author

What’s next

Nussmeier will now look to continue impressing NFL scouts as he prepares for the 2026 NFL Draft, where he is expected to be one of the first quarterbacks selected.

The takeaway

Garrett Nussmeier's strong performance at the Senior Bowl has helped him regain momentum after a difficult 2025 season, showcasing his talent and athleticism to NFL teams and boosting his draft stock ahead of the upcoming draft.