Saints OC Doug Nussmeier evaluates talent, like son Garrett, at Senior Bowl

The New Orleans offensive coordinator wore two hats at the Senior Bowl.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:31pm

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Saints' offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier is part of the evaluation process at this year's Senior Bowl, which includes his son, former LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. While Doug is not required to complete a formal scouting report on his son, he is working to evaluate the entire roster as part of his role with the Saints. Garrett is looking to prove himself in Mobile as he works his way back from an abdominal injury he suffered this past season at LSU.

Why it matters

The Senior Bowl is an important event for NFL teams to evaluate top college talent, and Doug Nussmeier's dual role as both a father and an NFL coach provides a unique perspective on the process. Garrett Nussmeier's performance at the event could impact his draft stock as he looks to take the next step in his football career.

The details

Doug Nussmeier told WGNO-TV in New Orleans that 'there's a difference between being a dad and being an NFL offensive coordinator' and that he will 'leave that to his coaches' when it comes to formally scouting his son. However, he is working to evaluate the entire roster as part of his role with the Saints. Garrett Nussmeier is looking to prove himself at the Senior Bowl as he works his way back from an abdominal injury suffered this past season at LSU.

  • The 2026 Senior Bowl is taking place this week in Mobile, Alabama.

The players

Doug Nussmeier

The offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints.

Garrett Nussmeier

The former LSU quarterback and Doug Nussmeier's son, who is looking to prove himself at the Senior Bowl as he works his way back from an injury.

Dak Prescott

An NFL quarterback that Doug Nussmeier has coached in the past.

Jalen Hurts

An NFL quarterback that Doug Nussmeier has coached in the past.

Justin Herbert

An NFL quarterback that Doug Nussmeier has coached in the past.

Tyler Shough

The Saints' starting quarterback, who had a phenomenal rookie season.

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What they’re saying

“Obviously, there's a difference between being a dad and being an NFL offensive coordinator. You have to draw lines on certain things. It's cool to be here and be part of the experience.”

— Doug Nussmeier, New Orleans Saints Offensive Coordinator (WGNO-TV)

“I'm extremely blessed to have him in my life. To have an upper hand in the sense of knowing what to expect. Being around guys he's coached in the last six or seven years like Dak (Prescott), Jalen Hurts, Justin Herbert and now Tyler in his first year. Just being able to study those guys from afar and see how they interact has helped me a lot.”

— Garrett Nussmeier (WGNO-TV)

“We're blessed and I am blessed to be able to do that and feel fortunate that he has an opportunity to be here and compete with the best.”

— Doug Nussmeier, New Orleans Saints Offensive Coordinator (WGNO-TV)

What’s next

Garrett Nussmeier will look to impress scouts and coaches during the Senior Bowl practices and game in order to boost his draft stock ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

Doug Nussmeier's dual role as both a father and an NFL coach provides a unique perspective on the evaluation process at the Senior Bowl. While he must maintain professional boundaries, his experience and relationships with top quarterbacks can benefit his son Garrett as he looks to take the next step in his football career.