The Seattle Seahawks strengthened their quarterback lineup this offseason by acquiring Sam Darnold after trading Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders. However, speculation is growing that Seattle could look to select quarterback Garrett Nussmeier in the 2026 NFL draft as a future successor for Darnold.
Following the trade of Sam Howell to the Minnesota Vikings and bringing back Drew Lock, the Seahawks drew attention for selecting Alabama’s Jalen Milroe in the third round of the 2025 NFL draft. Still, some analysts now forecast Seattle making a high-profile quarterback choice soon after.
Seattle’s Plans Possibly Include Drafting Nussmeier High in 2026
Mark Stolte from Pro Football & Sports Network predicts the Seahawks will use their 10th overall pick in the 2026 draft on LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. Stolte highlights that Nussmeier’s ability to avoid sacks stands out, an asset valued by Seattle after a challenging season protecting Darnold behind a weak offensive line.
Garrett Nussmeier’s top trait is sack avoidance — something the Seattle Seahawks will value after a rough year with Sam Darnold behind a bad line,
—Mark Stolte, Analyst
Unlike Darnold’s time in Minnesota, where he had strong support, Seattle’s environment has been less favorable in terms of receivers, protection, and offensive schemes, giving further reason to invest in a promising rookie like Nussmeier with his potential.
Aside from avoiding sacks, the Nuss Buss has great anticipation on throws. He can put zip on it and isn’t afraid to squeeze it into tight windows. Nussmeier ranked 11th in EPA last year on throws targeting the slot — great news for a team that has both Cooper Kupp and Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Sam Darnold’s Contract Structure May Allow Seattle an Early Exit
Sam Darnold agreed to a three-year, $100 million contract with Seattle in March, but the deal includes an option for the Seahawks to release him after two seasons, albeit with a cap penalty. This financial flexibility could allow Seattle to transition away from Darnold sooner if the team’s goals shift.
Choosing Nussmeier at a top-10 pick would likely indicate that the Seahawks view him as a long-term replacement for Darnold. Moreover, the earlier 2025 selection of Jalen Milroe might suggest Milroe is expected to fill a hybrid role, similar to Taysom Hill, instead of starting quarterback duties traditionally.
Garrett Nussmeier: A Leading Quarterback Prospect Entering the 2026 Draft
Nussmeier’s 2024 college season emphasized his strong credentials. He threw for 4,052 yards with 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, completing 64.2% of his passes across 13 games. His style draws comparisons to NFL quarterback Baker Mayfield due to their similarities in playmaking traits and athleticism.
Studying tape on Garrett Nussmeier in preparation for Thursday’s show (Summer Scouting Series continues),
There are so many similarities to Baker Mayfield in his game. Couple bumps in the road but mostly a thrill ride!
—Todd McShay, NFL Analyst
Seattle hopes Darnold will continue to build on his career-best season with the Vikings and turn the Seahawks into contenders within the NFC West. If Darnold achieves that, Seattle’s need to draft a high-profile quarterback like Nussmeier might diminish, delaying the prospect’s arrival.
However, the groundwork is being laid for Nussmeier to potentially become the franchise’s face at quarterback by 2026, positioning him as the potential future after Darnold’s tenure. This approach gives Seattle the chance to strengthen their quarterback depth and secure long-term stability at the position.