Garrett Nussmeier to the Chiefs Named Best QB Landing Spot

The Kansas City Chiefs made seven selections in the 2026 NFL draft, and besides the moves the team made in Round 1, perhaps the most-talked about pick from KC's draft class was seventh-round selection Garrett Nussmeier.

The former LSU quarterback began last season as a projected first-round pick, but his draft stock took a hit after suffering an abdominal injury that shortened his season.

The details of that injury are reportedly why Nussmeier fell so far in the draft.

"Nussmeier dealt with oblique pain last year, as a result of a nerve problem," SI.com's Albert Breer stated. "A cyst was found in his back, and that's at least part of this. His tape not being great last year is the other obvious factor."

But with just nine picks left in the seventh round, the Chiefs took a chance and ended Nussmeier's shocking draft fall.

Of the 10 QBs taken in the 2026 draft, ESPN's Jordan Reid believes Nussmeier to the Chiefs is the best landing spot for any of the signal-callers.

"Nussmeier with the Chiefs," Reid wrote. "While it took a lot longer than expected, Nussmeier went to Kansas City at pick No. 249 and gets a chance to learn under coach Andy Reid. With Patrick Mahomes recovering from an ACL injury, Nussmeier has a chance to compete with Justin Fields for significant reps in training camp."

Though Nussmeier had to wait a little longer than he would've liked, he actually landed in a good spot.

The Chiefs don't know exactly when Mahomes will return from his torn ACL. Some believe he'll be ready for Week 1, but the typical timeline for ACL recoveries suggest he could miss some games at the beginning of the season.

Fields has a history of inconsistency, so it's possible Nussmeier could get a chance to see some playing time as a rookie. And if not, he gets to sit and learn from a future Hall of Famer.

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This story was originally published April 27, 2026 at 7:24 PM.