The Pittsburgh Steelers have multiple obvious holes they need to address in the 2026 NFL Draft, but many mock drafts have the team selecting either a wide receiver or a quarterback with the 21st overall pick.
If the Steelers address the wide receiver position with their first round pick, there is a quarterback projected to be available after the first round who also has a connection to new head coach Mike McCarthy: LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.
“His father, Doug Nussmeier, is a former quarterback himself and currently works as the offensive coordinator of the New Orleans Saints. Before that, he spent a few years with the Dallas Cowboys working on McCarthy’s staff. Between 2020 and 2022, Nussmeier was the quarterbacks coach in Dallas,” wrote Jacob Punturi of Sports Illustrated.
Pittsburgh has been linked to Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson in many mock drafts, but the team could potentially opt to draft a quarterback later, and McCarthy’s connection to Nussmeier could be a factor in the Steelers draft strategy if they choose to target a quarterback beyond the first round.
“Because of that relationship, McCarthy has known Garrett throughout his collegiate career. He, perhaps more than any other coach in the NFL, has an in-depth knowledge of one of the most intriguing prospects in the NFL Draft,” wrote Punturi.
GettyQB Garrett Nussmeier.
Evaluating Garrett Nussmeier
Nussmeier is considered one of the more intriguing quarterbacks entering the 2026 NFL Draft. He was viewed as a potential first round pick prior to the season, but his projection has since slipped closer to a second or third round selection. That slide could ultimately be seen as strong value in what is considered a weaker quarterback class, especially given his upside.
“Before a turbulent senior season, the 23-year-old had significant NFL upside. With decent size at 6’1″ and 205 pounds, he possesses the physicality to be a starter at the next level due to his accuracy and ability to get out of tough situations with both his arm and legs,” wrote Punturi.
The LSU quarterback had a standout 2024 season, but took a step back in 2025 and notably played in just nine games due to injury.
“He showed flashes in 2024, throwing for 4,052 passing yards and 29 touchdowns. That had many evaluators believing that he had the potential to rise to the top of the 2026 QB class. But things didn’t work out that way, as Nussmeier took a clear step back, with 1,927 passing yards, 12 touchdowns and five interceptions in nine games. He battled multiple injuries in 2025, including patellar tendinitis in his knee,” wrote Jordan Reid of ESPN.
Nussmeier is known for his strong performance in the pocket, as well as his accuracy throwing the football. If the 23-year-old can rediscover his 2024 form, the Steelers could find a diamond in the rough if they select him with a Day 2 pick.
GettyNussmeier is projected to be a Day 2 selection.
What if the Steelers Draft Nussmeier?
If the Steelers draft Nussmeier, it would more than likely mean the team addresses the wide receiver position with the 21st overall pick, which much of the Steelers fan base would welcome given the unit’s lack of production in recent seasons.
Nussmeier would likely enter a quarterback competition with former sixth round pick Will Howard for the starting job. Even if the LSU quarterback did not win the job in that hypothetical scenario, the hope would be that McCarthy, who is familiar with Nussmeier, could help unlock his full potential.
GettyWill Howard.
The Under-the-Radar Link Between Steelers Coach and Potential QB Pick