LSU QB Nussmeier blames disappointing season on secret injury

Nussmeier revealed he played through a serious abdomen injury in 2025 that hindered his performance.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier had a breakout season in 2024 but struggled mightily in 2025, which hurt his NFL draft stock. Nussmeier revealed at the NFL Combine that he had been dealing with a secret abdomen injury throughout the 2025 season that caused him "stabbing pain" whenever he threw the ball. The injury occurred on the second day of fall camp and was never properly diagnosed, forcing Nussmeier to play through the pain all year.

Why it matters

Nussmeier's injury revelation provides an explanation for his disappointing 2025 season and could help improve his NFL draft outlook, as teams will now understand the underlying reasons behind his statistical regression. The injury also raises questions about LSU's medical staff and their ability to properly diagnose and treat player injuries.

The details

Nussmeier said the injury was a "rare deal" that his doctors were unable to figure out until a couple months ago. He played through the pain all season, which clearly impacted his performance as he saw significant drops in completion percentage, passing yards, and touchdown passes compared to his breakout 2024 campaign.

  • Nussmeier suffered the abdomen injury on the second day of LSU's 2025 fall camp.
  • Nussmeier was shut down in November 2025 while nursing the injury.

The players

Garrett Nussmeier

A 24-year-old quarterback who spent five seasons at LSU, including a breakout year in 2024 followed by a disappointing 2025 season that he now attributes to a secret abdomen injury.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I think it was pretty evident. I really wasn't able to throw the football. I had a stabbing pain in my ab every time I went to go throw the football.”

— Garrett Nussmeier, LSU Quarterback (Sporting News)

“We weren't able to figure out exactly what it was, it was a frustrating deal. It was just a rare deal, it was just a thing that we really didn't figure out what it was until two months ago.”

— Garrett Nussmeier, LSU Quarterback (Sporting News)

What’s next

Nussmeier's injury revelation could help improve his NFL draft stock, as teams will now have a better understanding of the reasons behind his disappointing 2025 season. His performance at upcoming pro day workouts and interviews will be closely watched as he looks to prove he is healthy and ready to make the jump to the NFL.

The takeaway

Nussmeier's situation highlights the importance of transparency around player injuries, as well as the challenges college medical staffs can face in properly diagnosing and treating complex issues. His ability to bounce back and prove he is fully healthy will be crucial as he looks to solidify his standing in the 2026 NFL Draft.