The Kansas City Chiefs closed out their draft weekend with a move for the future, adding depth to their quarterback room in the final stages of the event. On Saturday, the Kansas City Chiefs used their final pick to finalize the Garrett Nussmeier NFL Draft story, selecting the former LSU signal-caller in the seventh round. The move brings a high-pedigree developmental prospect to a roster already led by three-time Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes.
The Garrett Nussmeier NFL Draft Profile: From LSU to Kansas City
Garrett Nussmeier arrives in Kansas City after a collegiate career defined by patience and high-level production when given the opportunity. Spending the majority of his time at LSU behind Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, Nussmeier earned a reputation as a pure pocket passer with a live arm. His selection in the Garrett Nussmeier NFL Draft process highlights the Chiefs' interest in his technical foundation and his ability to operate within a complex offensive system.
Nussmeier’s most notable collegiate performance came during the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl, where he stepped into the starting role and threw for 395 yards and three touchdowns. That performance served as a springboard for his draft stock, proving he could handle the pressure of leading a high-octane offense. For the Chiefs, taking a player with his upside in the seventh round represents a low-risk, high-reward investment in the game’s most important position.
Fitting into the Chiefs’ Quarterback Depth Chart
The addition of Nussmeier adds an intriguing layer to the Chiefs' depth chart. While Patrick Mahomes is the undisputed face of the franchise, the team has consistently prioritized having reliable arms in the building. Earlier this offseason, the Chiefs signed veteran Carson Wentz to serve as the primary backup, providing a seasoned presence behind Mahomes.
By selecting Nussmeier, the Chiefs are looking toward long-term stability. As a seventh-round pick, Nussmeier will likely compete for a developmental spot on the roster or the practice squad. Under the tutelage of head coach Andy Reid and offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, Nussmeier will have the opportunity to learn one of the most sophisticated playbooks in professional football without the immediate pressure of starting.
Why the Chiefs Targeted Nussmeier in the Seventh Round
Drafting a quarterback in the late rounds is a common strategy for successful franchises. The Chiefs have a history of identifying traits that translate well to their system, and Nussmeier’s background suggests he is a "coach's son" with a high football IQ. His father, Doug Nussmeier, is a long-time NFL coach and former quarterback, which often appeals to teams looking for players with a professional approach to the game.
- Arm Talent: Nussmeier has shown the ability to make every throw on the field, fitting balls into tight windows.
- Pocket Presence: Unlike many modern dual-threat quarterbacks, Nussmeier excels at navigating the pocket and keeping his eyes downfield.
- System Fit: The Chiefs' offense relies on timing and decision-making, two areas where Nussmeier showed promise during his time at LSU.
Finalizing the Chiefs' Draft Class
The selection of Garrett Nussmeier marks the conclusion of another strategic draft for general manager Brett Veach. Throughout the weekend, the Chiefs focused on addressing key areas of need while also taking shots on talented players who fell in the draft order. Nussmeier fits the mold of a player whose talent level often exceeds his draft position due to a lack of starting experience in college.
As the Chiefs prepare for their quest for a three-peat, the focus will now shift to rookie minicamps and organized team activities (OTAs). Nussmeier will join his new teammates in Kansas City shortly to begin his professional journey. While he may not be taking snaps on Sundays anytime soon, his development will be a storyline to watch as the Chiefs continue to build a sustainable contender around their core stars.
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