SEC Rivals Vie to Be QB2 in 2026 NFL Draft

Garrett Nussmeier and Ty Simpson compete to be the second quarterback selected after Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Garrett Nussmeier, the LSU quarterback, and Ty Simpson, the Alabama quarterback, are competing to be the second quarterback selected in the 2026 NFL Draft after Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza of Indiana. Nussmeier had a frustrating 2025 season due to an oblique injury that limited his throwing ability, while Simpson impressed NFL teams like the New York Jets with his talent and the NFL-readiness of Alabama's program.

Why it matters

The race to be the QB2 in the 2026 draft class is an important storyline, as the second quarterback selected often becomes a high draft pick and potential franchise quarterback. Nussmeier and Simpson are both aiming to prove they have the skills to be that guy, which could significantly impact their professional futures.

The details

Nussmeier strained an oblique muscle in fall camp that severely limited his throwing ability throughout the 2025 season at LSU. He was eventually shut down for the final three games. Simpson, meanwhile, had a strong debut season as Alabama's starting quarterback and impressed NFL teams like the Jets with his talent and the NFL-readiness of the Crimson Tide program.

  • Nussmeier's injury occurred on the second day of fall camp in 2025.
  • Nussmeier was shut down for the final three games of the 2025 season.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is expected to have Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza as the top quarterback selected.

The players

Garrett Nussmeier

The LSU quarterback who had a frustrating 2025 season due to an oblique injury, but is looking to rebuild his case as the QB2 in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Ty Simpson

The Alabama quarterback who impressed NFL teams like the New York Jets with his talent and the NFL-readiness of the Crimson Tide program, positioning himself as a top QB2 option in the 2026 draft.

Fernando Mendoza

The Indiana quarterback who is expected to be the top quarterback selected in the 2026 NFL Draft after winning the Heisman Trophy.

Brian Kelly

The former LSU head coach who did not fully disclose the nature of Nussmeier's injury until later in the 2025 season.

Doug Nussmeier

Garrett Nussmeier's father, who is the offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints.

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What they’re saying

“My injury occurred in fall camp -- Day 2, practice two of fall camp. How much did it affect me? 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 (statenews.net)

“First off, I think I'm ready. I'm a franchise quarterback. Alabama prepares you the most for the NFL ... The Alabama locker room is as close to an NFL locker room as you can get.”

— Ty Simpson (statenews.net)

What’s next

The Jets, who have the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, will continue to evaluate Nussmeier, Simpson, and the other top quarterback prospects as they prepare for the draft.

The takeaway

The race between Nussmeier and Simpson to be the QB2 in the 2026 draft class highlights the importance of quarterback talent in the modern NFL. Both players are aiming to prove they have the skills to be a franchise quarterback, which could significantly impact their professional futures.