The Kansas City Chiefs took LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft. He has seen a good amount of action in the first two preseason games, and head coach Andy Reid announced the rookie will start the final preseason game Friday against the Seattle Seahawks.
Nussmeier was a first-round talent entering his final year at LSU in 2025. Unfortunately, he had a down season that was marred by injuries. He played in nine games as a senior and threw for 1,972 yards, 12 touchdowns and five interceptions. Nussmeier was dealing with pain in his oblique, and he found out at the NFL Draft Combine that he has a cyst on his spine that was creating the discomfort. The hope is he’s past it, and surgery won’t be necessary.
In the first preseason game, he was 13-for-19 for 98 yards. He followed it up last week going 9-for-17 for 74 yards. He has shown flashes, particularly on the move. Chris Oladokun, who Nussmeier is battling for the QB3 spot, will not play in the finale.
Does this mean the Chiefs have seen enough to make their decision? The real question is whether either quarterback will pass through waivers in order to go on the practice squad. Nussmeier may have the edge because his previous draft stock may enamor another team to claim him. The Chiefs could waive Oladokun and still potentially retain his services. Friday will be a big day in the evaluation process for this situation.
