The Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers football program has undergone a remarkable transformation under head coach Brian Kelly. After an eventful first season where the team showed promising signs of improvement, the focus now shifts toward the future—specifically, the quarterback position. The quest to find the next LSU quarterback to lead the program to future glory has become one of the most talked-about storylines among Tigers fans and analysts alike.
The era of Garrett Nussmeier, the fiery and talented signal-caller, seems to be drawing to a close as the LSU Tigers prepare for the 2025 season and beyond. Nussmeier’s leadership, as well as his performances on the field, has certainly left a mark on LSU’s program. However, fans are eagerly anticipating who will step in next to continue LSU’s tradition of elite quarterback play and help the Tigers reclaim national glory in the fiercely competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC).
For years, LSU has been known as a school that can produce top-tier talent in almost every position, but the quarterback position has occasionally been the missing piece in an otherwise well-rounded team. As LSU’s fortunes begin to change under Brian Kelly’s leadership, the Tigers are now looking to establish a long-term solution at quarterback. With Nussmeier’s tenure winding down, the team’s future under center is more important than ever.
In this article, we will dive deep into the LSU quarterback situation, evaluating the potential candidates to replace Nussmeier, the ongoing battle for the starting job, and what LSU fans can expect from the team as they look to build a championship-caliber squad for years to come.
Garrett Nussmeier’s Legacy: The Final Act
Before we examine the future of LSU’s quarterback position, it’s important to reflect on the impact of Garrett Nussmeier on the program. Nussmeier, who joined LSU as part of the 2021 recruiting class, quickly became known for his strong arm, fearless mentality, and potential to develop into one of the best quarterbacks in college football.
However, Nussmeier’s time as the Tigers’ starting quarterback has been marked by both highs and lows. While he demonstrated flashes of brilliance and showed the ability to make jaw-dropping throws, there were also moments of inconsistency. LSU fans saw glimpses of his immense talent, but they also witnessed growing pains as he navigated the pressures of being the starting quarterback in one of the nation’s toughest conferences.
Over his time as LSU’s quarterback, Nussmeier managed to guide the Tigers through some memorable moments. Despite being in a program that was in transition, Nussmeier led LSU to some key victories, and his confidence and leadership were apparent in pivotal games. His experience in big games, both in the SEC and beyond, will certainly serve him well as he transitions to the next phase of his career, whether it be the NFL or another professional league.
That said, as much as Nussmeier has done for LSU, the time for the next generation of quarterbacks to rise has arrived. With Nussmeier potentially leaving after the 2024 season, LSU fans are already looking ahead to who will lead the charge in the coming years.
The Quarterback Candidates: Who Will Replace Nussmeier?
As LSU prepares for life after Nussmeier, there are several intriguing quarterback candidates vying for the starting job. These quarterbacks, a mix of young talent and experienced players, all bring unique skill sets to the table, and each could be the future of LSU football.
1. Walker Howard: The Freshman Phenom
The first name on everyone’s mind is Walker Howard, the highly-touted 2024 recruit and one of the top quarterbacks in the country. Howard, a product of St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette, Louisiana, was the No. 1 quarterback prospect in Louisiana and a top-50 recruit nationally. His high school career was nothing short of spectacular, where he showcased a combination of impressive physical traits and football IQ.
Howard’s natural arm strength, mobility, and accuracy made him one of the most coveted recruits in the nation. In high school, he was known for his poise in the pocket and ability to make all the throws, including deep passes and touch throws over the middle. His quick release and ability to read defenses will give him a leg up in competing for the starting job at LSU.
Although Garrett Nussmeier has held the starting role for LSU in recent seasons, Howard could very well emerge as the future face of the program. As a highly-ranked freshman, it’s reasonable to expect that Howard will get the opportunity to compete for playing time right away. Kelly and the Tigers staff have worked hard to integrate him into the offensive scheme, and fans will be watching closely to see how he adjusts to the SEC level of competition.
Howard’s future is bright, and LSU fans are excited to see how he develops as he acclimates to the college game. While it remains to be seen whether Howard will take the reins immediately or have to wait his turn, he is undoubtedly a name to watch in the coming years.
2. Jayden Daniels: The Veteran Option
Another player who could have a significant impact on LSU’s quarterback future is Jayden Daniels, a veteran quarterback who transferred to LSU for the 2022 season. Daniels, who spent his first few years at Arizona State, brings experience to the table and has the ability to be a leader on and off the field.
While Daniels was largely considered a backup behind Nussmeier for much of his time at LSU, his experience in big games and his ability to lead the offense could make him an option as the starting quarterback moving forward. If LSU feels that a more experienced signal-caller is needed in 2025, Daniels could see an increased role in the competition for the starting job.
His mobility, arm strength, and ability to escape pressure in the pocket make him an intriguing choice for LSU, but his performance in the 2024 season will largely determine whether he has a chance to compete for the starting role in 2025.
3. T.J. Finley: The Wildcard
In addition to Howard and Daniels, T.J. Finley, a transfer from Auburn, may also be in the mix as LSU searches for its next quarterback. Finley, who played at Auburn before transferring, has shown flashes of ability during his time in the SEC. Though he may not have been as consistent as some of the other quarterbacks, he brings valuable experience from his time at Auburn.
Finley’s frame, at 6’7″, allows him to see over the line and make plays in the pocket. His strong arm and physicality could help him excel in Brian Kelly’s system, but he will need to refine his decision-making and consistency to earn the starting spot.
What Will LSU Fans Expect?
For LSU fans, the expectation is clear: they want a quarterback who can lead the team to championships and take the program back to national prominence. LSU has a proud tradition of elite quarterbacks, from Joe Burrow to JaMarcus Russell, and fans expect nothing less than the same caliber of player to emerge once again.
However, the reality of the quarterback position is that it often takes time to develop. No matter who emerges as the starter, LSU fans must be patient with the development process. Brian Kelly, known for his development of quarterbacks at Notre Dame, will work to ensure that whoever leads the Tigers at quarterback is ready for the rigors of the SEC.
There will be growing pains, especially for young quarterbacks like Walker Howard, who will need time to adjust to the speed and physicality of SEC defenses. But the potential for greatness is undoubtedly there, and fans are optimistic about the program’s future under Brian Kelly’s leadership.
The Big Picture: LSU’s Path to Glory
While the quest to find the next quarterback of LSU is crucial, it’s important to note that LSU’s road to reclaiming college football glory goes beyond just the quarterback position. LSU’s defense, special teams, and recruiting efforts are all factors that will contribute to the Tigers’ success.
With Brian Kelly at the helm, LSU is focused on building a complete program—one that is capable of competing with the very best in the SEC and nationally. The quarterback situation is just one piece of the puzzle, but it is undeniably the most important. If LSU can find a leader under center, the Tigers will be well-positioned to reclaim their spot at the top of college football.
The Future is Bright for LSU
As LSU fans eagerly await the next chapter in the program’s storied history, the search for the quarterback of the future is in full swing. Whether it’s Walker Howard, Jayden Daniels, or T.J. Finley, LSU is poised to find a talented signal-caller who can lead the team back to national prominence.
With Brian Kelly’s leadership, a talented group of skill players, and a strong defense, LSU has all the pieces in place for a bright future. The quarterback position is pivotal, but with Kelly’s guidance, LSU’s next quarterback will have the tools necessary to succeed and bring the Tigers back to championship glory. Fans might not have to wait much longer to figure out who that quarterback will be, but one thing is for certain: LSU’s future is in good hands.