Chiefs Select QB Garrett Nussmeier in Seventh Round of 2026 Draft

The Kansas City Chiefs selected LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier with the 249th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Nussmeier is the first quarterback drafted by the team during the Patrick Mahomes era.

Nussmeier is the first quarterback drafted by Kansas City in the Patrick Mahomes era.

Draft Stock and Medical Factors

Nussmeier was projected as a potential first-round pick in early 2026 mock drafts. His draft stock declined following an injury-affected final season at LSU, during which his performance metrics reportedly declined compared to his 2024 season.

Medical concerns, including a spinal cyst he dealt with in 2025, were cited by analysts as a contributing factor to his fall in the draft.

Team Roster Context

The Chiefs currently list Justin Fields as the backup quarterback. The team has a need for additional personnel to take snaps during training camp while starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes recovers from a torn ACL.

Analysts have suggested that Nussmeier is unlikely to play during the 2026 season but could develop into a potential future backup for Mahomes.