Garrett Nussmeier, born February 7, 2002, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, is an American football quarterback currently playing for the LSU Tigers. The son of former NFL quarterback and coach Doug Nussmeier, Garrett's football journey has been deeply influenced by his family’s connection to the sport. Growing up, he moved frequently due to his father’s coaching career, living in eight different states and Canada, while spending summers in Lake Charles. He attended Edward S. Marcus High School in Flower Mound, Texas, where he became one of the nation’s top quarterback prospects. In his junior season, he passed for 3,788 yards and 38 touchdowns, and in his senior year, he threw for 2,815 yards, 33 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. His outstanding performances earned him offers from multiple top programs, but he committed to LSU over Texas, Texas A&M, Miami, and others.
Nussmeier’s college career began in 2021, where he appeared in four games as a true freshman and passed for 329 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, while also redshirting. Despite not starting the 2022 season, he played in seven games, throwing for 800 yards, five touchdowns, and four interceptions, and made a notable impact in LSU's SEC Championship Game against Georgia, completing 15-of-27 passes for 294 yards and two touchdowns in the second half. In 2023, Nussmeier made his first career start in the ReliaQuest Bowl, where he earned MVP honours after throwing for 395 yards and three touchdowns in a 35-31 win over Wisconsin. He played a significant role in several games, including a win over Army and coming in for an injured Jayden Daniels during LSU’s game against Alabama.
By 2024, Nussmeier was named LSU’s starting quarterback, a role he held throughout the season. He completed 337-of-525 passes for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, leading LSU to a 9-4 season and a Texas Bowl victory over Baylor. His 4,052 passing yards ranked No. 2 in LSU history, and his 29 touchdowns were among the top in the SEC. Nussmeier recorded several notable performances, including two 400-yard games, and was named MVP of the Texas Bowl after completing 24-of-34 passes for 313 yards and three touchdowns. Throughout the season, he displayed his leadership and toughness, notably playing through a shoulder injury to help LSU defeat Oklahoma 37-17. Nussmeier's career statistics as of 2024 place him among LSU's all-time leaders in passing yards, touchdowns, and completions. He has demonstrated a remarkable ability to perform under pressure, earning respect from his teammates and coaches. Off the field, Nussmeier is also a dedicated student, earning spots on the SEC Academic Honor Roll in 2021 and 2022, and graduated in May 2025 with a degree in interdisciplinary studies.
Nussmeier’s future in college football looks promising as he heads into the 2025 season as LSU’s starting quarterback. His ability to throw for massive yardage, make big plays, and perform under pressure sets him apart as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. With his leadership, work ethic, and undeniable talent, Nussmeier is poised to lead LSU to success and potentially contend for a national championship. Having grown up with the guidance of his father, Doug Nussmeier, who has a distinguished career as a quarterback coach in the NFL, Garrett’s football IQ and maturity are well beyond his years, making him a key figure in LSU’s offence and a player to watch as he continues to build his legacy.
Garrett Nussmeier’s football journey began at Edward S. Marcus High School in Flower Mound, Texas, where he quickly emerged as one of the top quarterback prospects in the nation. As a junior in 2019, Nussmeier threw for an impressive 3,788 yards and 38 touchdowns, establishing himself as a dynamic and highly skilled passer. His talent continued to shine in his senior year, where he passed for 2,815 yards, 33 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, solidifying his reputation as one of the top quarterbacks in Texas high school football. Nussmeier’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations earned him Texas District 6-6A MVP honours and a selection to the prestigious Under Armour All-American Game in 2020.
His high school career was marked by consistency and excellence, with Nussmeier throwing for over 8,160 yards and 83 touchdowns during his four years at Marcus High School, completing 623 passes on 946 attempts. His leadership and vision on the field were unmatched, and he became known for his ability to make precise throws and read defences. These accomplishments earned him a four-star rating from 247 Sports, ESPN, and Rivals, making him one of the top quarterbacks in the country.
Garrett Nussmeier took the next step in his football career by committing to play for the LSU Tigers in 2021, joining one of the premier college football programs in the nation. Nussmeier's freshman season in 2021 saw him play in four games, completing 29-of-57 passes for 329 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. Though he was redshirted for the season, his early performances hinted at the immense potential he possessed.
Entering 2022, Nussmeier faced competition from both Myles Brennan and Jayden Daniels for the starting quarterback role. While Daniels ultimately secured the starting position, Nussmeier played in seven games, finishing the season with 800 yards, five touchdowns, and four interceptions. He notably impressed in the SEC Championship Game against Georgia, where he completed 15-of-27 passes for 294 yards and two touchdowns in the second half, setting a new LSU record for most passing yards in a half.
2023 marked a pivotal year for Nussmeier, as he earned his first career start in the ReliaQuest Bowl against Wisconsin. He led LSU to a 35-31 victory, completing 31-of-45 passes for 395 yards and three touchdowns, earning MVP honours. His ability to lead LSU in crucial moments became evident, particularly in his game-winning touchdown drive in the fourth quarter. Nussmeier’s growth as a quarterback continued throughout the season, where he made several key appearances, including taking over for an injured Daniels during the Alabama game.
By 2024, Nussmeier was named LSU’s starting quarterback for the season. In what was his most prolific year, he passed for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. His 337 completions ranked No. 2 in LSU history, while his 4,052 passing yards placed him No. 2 in the LSU record books. Nussmeier displayed exceptional skill, finishing second in the SEC in passing yards per game (311.7) and leading the conference in completions. His ability to step up in clutch moments was evident, particularly in the Texas Bowl win over Baylor, where he was named MVP after throwing for 313 yards and three touchdowns. His performance against South Carolina and Ole Miss, where he led LSU to dramatic comeback victories, cemented his reputation as a leader on and off the field.
As of now, Garrett Nussmeier has not had an international football career. His experience has been exclusively within the United States, primarily playing college football for the LSU Tigers in the NCAA. Nussmeier has been recognized as one of the top quarterbacks in college football, particularly during his time at LSU, where he has set several school records and led the team to notable victories.
While Nussmeier has not yet participated in any international competitions or professional football leagues outside of the U.S., his impressive college career has garnered national attention. Given his performance and trajectory, it is possible that he could play a role in professional leagues, potentially attracting interest from teams in the NFL or international leagues in the future. However, as of now, his football achievements are confined to his high school and college career in the United States.
Position: Quarterback
Skills
Garrett Nussmeier’s life has been deeply influenced by his family, especially his father, Doug Nussmeier, a former NFL quarterback and current coach. Growing up in a football family, Garrett was mentored by his father and others in the industry, learning the nuances of the quarterback position from an early age. His connection to football is not just professional but deeply personal, and he often speaks about the valuable lessons learned from his father. As a result, Garrett is also inclined to give back and mentor younger athletes, offering guidance to the next generation and passing on the lessons he has learned. This mentorship is not limited to just football; it extends to life skills, discipline, and the importance of hard work.
Alongside football, Garrett has always placed a strong emphasis on his education. He graduated in May 2025 with a degree in interdisciplinary studies from LSU, balancing academics and athletics throughout his college years. This balance reflects his belief in the importance of education, not just as an athlete but as an individual. In recognition of his academic excellence, he earned spots on the SEC Academic Honor Roll in both 2021 and 2022. Garrett’s intellectual curiosity doesn’t stop at football; his interest in sports management and business could see him exploring these fields in the future, especially once his football career concludes.
Garrett Nussmeier has shown a strong commitment to community service and giving back to others. Raised with the understanding that success in football comes with a responsibility to support others, he regularly participates in charity events and youth outreach programs. He enjoys engaging with young athletes, offering his insights into football and life as a student-athlete. Through these efforts, he helps foster the next generation of players, encouraging them to strive for success in both academics and sports. He has a particular focus on providing mentorship to first-generation college students, emphasizing the importance of education and hard work.
Having moved frequently as a child due to his father’s coaching career, Garrett has developed a love for travel and exploring new cultures. This appreciation for different environments has shaped his outlook on life, as he values the experiences gained from each place he has lived and visited. While football keeps him grounded in the U.S., Garrett remains eager to explore the world, gaining new perspectives on different cultures. His love for sports beyond football, particularly basketball and baseball, also reflects his desire to stay active and engaged in different areas of interest while traveling.
As an athlete, Garrett places great importance on his physical fitness. His commitment to maintaining peak physical condition extends beyond football practices. Garrett follows a strict workout regimen that supports his endurance, strength, and flexibility. He also focuses on nutrition, ensuring he fuels his body for the demands of both college football and his overall health. Mental well-being is also key for Garrett, and he practices mindfulness to stay focused and maintain a healthy mindset amidst the pressures of being a student-athlete. His commitment to both physical and mental health plays a crucial role in his ability to perform at a high level consistently.
Garrett is a devout Christian, and his faith is an integral part of his identity. He attributes his success and ability to overcome challenges to his belief in God. His faith helps him maintain a sense of humility, gratitude, and resilience in both football and everyday life. Garrett believes in the power of God’s timing and often references it as a source of strength when faced with adversity. His spiritual beliefs not only guide him on the field but also in his approach to leadership, his relationships with teammates, and his commitment to community service.~
Outside of football, Garrett enjoys expressing himself through fashion. He sees personal style as a form of self-expression, where he can showcase his personality and confidence. Whether it's casual wear or formal attire, Garrett enjoys experimenting with different looks and staying in tune with the latest fashion trends. His style reflects a balance of comfort and flair, and he has built a reputation for looking sharp both on and off the field. Garrett’s interest in fashion provides him with an outlet to express his individuality outside of his football career.
Nussmeier's legacy as a quarterback is rapidly solidifying, with his impressive stats and memorable performances setting him apart. After an eventful freshman season in 2021, where he showed flashes of his potential, Nussmeier’s breakout came in 2023 when he earned MVP honours in the ReliaQuest Bowl after leading LSU to victory over Wisconsin. His ability to step up in clutch moments, including game-winning drives, proved his resilience and leadership.
In 2024, Nussmeier elevated his game to new heights, setting LSU records for passing yards and completions in a season. With 4,052 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, he cemented his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the SEC and college football. His resilience and ability to perform under pressure were showcased in several dramatic victories, such as the Texas Bowl win over Baylor, where he was named MVP after throwing for 313 yards and three touchdowns.
He ranks among LSU’s all-time leaders in passing yards (No. 9 with 5,772 yards), completions (No. 7 with 466), and touchdowns (tie No. 5 with 40), positioning himself as a future LSU legend. His leadership on and off the field, along with his toughness in overcoming injuries (such as the shoulder injury against Oklahoma in 2024), has earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. His legacy in LSU football history will be marked by his record-breaking performances, comeback victories, and game-changing plays.
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