We have entered the new era of college football, where it’s very easy to make a million bucks if you star athlete at college. Thanks to NIL deals, talents like LSU’s quarterback Garrett Nussmeier are cashing in big. For some rising stars, the earnings rival what many white-collar professionals make over half a decade—and Garrett is well on his way down this fast lane. With bags of money and endless opportunities, today’s college athletes are navigating a game that’s as much about the wallet as it is about the field. And it’s safe to say Brian Kelly’s QB is one of those blazing this lucrative trail.

As of November 8, 2024, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s NIL value is estimated at a whopping $1.6 million, ranking him at #23 on On3’s top 100 NCAA athletes. Nussmeier’s NIL journey started back in 2022, during his second year with LSU, when he signed a deal with Cheez-It, earning the unique experience of spending a night in a Cheez-It-themed room for the Citrus Bowl.

In 2023, he joined the Bayou Traditions NIL collective, which supports LSU athletes. That same year, he became the face of Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, with the company excitedly announcing they were “thrilled to welcome Garrett to the G team.” This year, Nussmeier’s NIL earnings soared with deals from big brands like Powerade, EA Sports, and Signature Ride, all thanks to the new NCAA policies. His talent, good looks, and rapidly growing fan base—including 320,000 social media followers—position him as one of college football’s top NIL earners.

Well, there is no doubt that Nussmeier’s reputation precedes him. Some fans and media have even dubbed him “the second coming of Joe Burrow.” A standout in high school, he threw for over 2,815 yards and 33 touchdowns in his senior year alone, leading his team to an undefeated season and ending his high school career with over 8,100 yards and 83 touchdowns. Now, as he continues his journey with the LSU Tigers, his NIL success could reach its peak if he decides to enter the 2025 NFL Draft. Not bad for a young quarterback with a record that speaks for itself.

Garrett Nussmeier’s LSU Journey

Former Marcus High QB arrived at LSU in 2021 with immense potential. Initially, Nussmeier sat behind many LSU quarterbacks, and only in the 2024 season did Brian Kelly name him as a starter. However, since then, his on-field performance hasn’t been that bad; also, it’s not that great; he’s having a bit of trouble with inconsistency and interception. But his star power remains undeniably good. It’s this star power, coupled with the new era of NIL, that allowed Nussmeier’s to make a serious bank this season.

This season, the LSU Tigers are currently ranked 16th on the NCAA football Poll, with the record (6-2). Despite making a serious ton of money, the Texas native failed to live up to the hype and expectations set by the Tigers fans. One could make an argument that injuries may have slightly hampered his progress, limiting his opportunities to showcase his skills. Despite these setbacks, he has shown flashes of brilliance, alongside with his interception issue. Garrett Nussmeier, this season threw over 2,627 yards and 20 touchdowns with 9 interceptions.

However, the season has not ended for the LSU Tigers and Garrett Nussmeier. There is still time for some good ‘Nussmeier show.’ But is it easy? Nope. The road ahead looks very challenging, and this season is a do-or-die situation for the LSU and Nussmeier. This might even be the last time Nussmeier is wearing white-purple-gold, before heading towards the draft. And with the way things are going, his NFL career looks pretty promising too!