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Former LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier revealed that an abdominal injury suffered during fall camp significantly impacted his disappointing 2025 season, shedding new light on a campaign that raised questions about his NFL Draft outlook.
Speaking after his Pro Day and earlier at the Senior Bowl, Nussmeier said he felt a "stabbing pain" in his abdomen on the second day of fall camp - a setback that limited his ability to rotate his torso and throw effectively throughout the season.
It was just a freak deal and an unfortunate thing. I'm still not going to get into specifics, but it prevented me from throwing the way I normally do.
Injury explains sudden statistical decline
Entering 2025, Nussmeier was widely viewed as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2026 draft class after a breakout 4,000-yard, 29-touchdown season the year prior. However, his production dropped sharply as LSU struggled.
In nine starts, Nussmeier threw for:
- 194 completions out of 288 attempts
- 67.4% efficiency
- 1,927 yards
- 12 touchdowns
- 5 interceptions
He often underthrew passes and avoided deep attempts - issues now attributed to the abdominal injury.
Despite widespread speculation, LSU head coach Brian Kelly repeatedly denied that Nussmeier was dealing with a physical issue during the season. Following Kelly's dismissal after a late-season loss to Texas A&M, Nussmeier played one more game before being benched and beginning rehabilitation.
"Obviously, this last year didn't go the way we wanted," Nussmeier said. "There was a lot of adversity... but it's going to make me a better player."
Strong pre-draft showing restores momentum
Since his final appearance in November 2025, Nussmeier has focused on recovery and said he returned to full health shortly before the Senior Bowl, where he earned MVP honors.
He followed that performance with an impressive Pro Day, completing 69 of 72 passes and displaying improved arm strength that scouts noted was missing during the season.
"It's been a long process trying to get back, but I'm feeling great,"Nussmeier said. "Today I showed who I am. I'm healthy and able to throw the ball."
With medical concerns clarified, evaluators now view his 2025 struggles in a different light. Teams seeking upside at quarterback could see Nussmeier as a high-reward option capable of rediscovering his pre-injury form at the next level.