What's Happening?
LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has been diagnosed with a cyst on his spine, as revealed during pre-draft physicals. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the cyst was pressing on a nerve, causing discomfort in Nussmeier's oblique. Despite the diagnosis,
Nussmeier has been asymptomatic since before the Senior Bowl and throughout the draft process. If symptoms were to reappear, a minimally invasive procedure could be performed, requiring only a 2-3 week recovery period. This medical issue may explain Nussmeier's underwhelming performance during his final year at LSU, where he threw for 1,927 yards, 12 touchdowns, and five interceptions over nine games. LSU Coach Brian Kelly had previously noted that Nussmeier was dealing with a torso injury and patellar tendinitis.
Why It's Important?
The revelation of Nussmeier's spinal cyst is significant as it provides context for his performance issues and could influence his standing in the upcoming NFL Draft. As the No. 107 overall player and fourth-ranked quarterback on Bleacher Report's final big board, understanding the medical challenges he faced might improve his draft stock. The fact that the condition can be managed with a minimally invasive procedure adds to his appeal as a draft prospect. Teams may view this diagnosis as a manageable issue, potentially increasing their interest in Nussmeier, who has been compared to San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy for his accuracy and field vision.
What's Next?
As the NFL Draft approaches, teams will need to weigh the potential risks and benefits of selecting Nussmeier. His medical condition, while currently asymptomatic, will likely be a topic of discussion among team medical staff and scouts. If drafted, Nussmeier will need to demonstrate his ability to perform at a high level without being hindered by his spinal condition. The decision to draft him will depend on teams' confidence in his health and their assessment of his potential to contribute to their roster.
