Garrett Nussmeier’s Patience and Loyalty to LSU Paying Off On and Off the Field
In today’s fast-paced world of college football, where players often switch programs through the transfer portal in search of immediate playing time, Garrett Nussmeier stands out as a rare example of loyalty and perseverance. For three seasons, the LSU quarterback waited patiently behind others on the depth chart—most notably Heisman winner and future NFL star Jayden Daniels. Instead of transferring, Nussmeier stayed committed to LSU, a decision that finally bore fruit when he was named the starting quarterback.
His loyalty isn’t just limited to the football field. Off the field, Nussmeier has also maintained a strong relationship with his girlfriend, Ella Springfield, even as life took them to different places. Springfield graduated from LSU with a marketing degree and moved away from Baton Rouge, while Nussmeier remained to finish his athletic journey. Despite the distance, the couple has stayed together, and Springfield recently returned to LSU to support Nussmeier as he celebrated his own graduation.
Nussmeier earned a degree in interdisciplinary studies, marking a significant milestone as he balances academics and athletics. Ella proudly posted a photo of him in his LSU graduation gown on Instagram with the caption, “HE DID IT!!!” Her enthusiasm reflected how meaningful the achievement was for both of them.
With college now behind him academically, Nussmeier enters a crucial final year at LSU. This upcoming season could determine his place in the 2026 NFL Draft, where he’s already being discussed as a potential first-round pick. While he considered entering the draft earlier, he chose to return for one more year to refine his skills—a move seen by many as both mature and strategic.
However, a recent prediction by Rivals named Penn State’s Drew Allar as the likely first quarterback selected in the 2026 draft. Allar is praised for his size, arm strength, and pro-ready frame, drawing comparisons to NFL star Josh Allen. While this isn’t necessarily a blow to Nussmeier, it does raise the stakes for his final season. To climb into that top spot, he’ll need a standout year on the field.
Nussmeier, the son of former NFL quarterback and current New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier, has been surrounded by football his entire life. Now, without academics in the way, all of his focus will be on the game and proving he belongs at the next level.
A year ago, no one expected Cam Ward to become the top overall draft pick—proof that anything can happen in football. For Nussmeier, the coming season is not just about statistics and wins; it’s about validating the loyalty and patience he’s shown to LSU and proving that betting on himself was the right move.