Nussmeier’s 2025 season was hampered by LSU’s struggling program, an underperforming offensive line, and a core injury, but he finished strong at the Senior Bowl. His best college production came in 2024, when he threw for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, highlighting the potential that drew early Heisman frontrunner talk before injuries derailed that season.
NFL scouts have been mixed on Nussmeier. Scouts have questioned the size and how his measurables translate to the NFL, with some viewing him as a Day 2 prospect rather than a first-round candidate. One analyst noted that, despite his big-arm potential, “the measurables on paper can look really different” from player to player, and several evaluators remain cautious about his upside.
Cleveland’s new regime under head coach Todd Monken is still evaluating the offense and has not committed to a quarterback plan. Monken indicated that quarterback decisions are “still to be determined,” and the Browns could pursue a quarterback through the draft, free agency, or a trade as part of a broader offensive rebuild.
Overall, the Browns appear to be weighing a multi-year quarterback plan. If Nussmeier lands at 39, he might sit for a year or two, allowing Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders to start in 2026 before a potential transition to Nussmeier in 2027 and beyond. Regardless, Cleveland remains expected to pursue quarterback help in some form this offseason.
