LSU football’s quarterback room had some comings and goings in recent weeks.
It’s set at the top with Garrett Nussmeier’s return. After serving as a backup for three seasons, Nussmeier got the starting job in 2024.
With a strong year, Nussmeier has a chance to be LSU’s all time leading passer. He’s also considered a favorite to win the Heisman Trophy, something a couple of fifth year LSU QBs have already done.
Behind Nussmeier, there are some changes.
Due to transfer portal departures and acquisitions, the room experienced some shifts so far this offseason. The Tigers also lost the No. 1 quarterback in the 2025 cycle as Bryce Underwood flipped to Michigan.
Rickie Collins decided to search for a new school while LSU signed Michael Van Buren Jr. from Mississippi State, who won the starting job in his true freshman season. He’ll certainly compete with Vanderbilt transfer AJ Swann. The rising senior committed to the Tigers following the 2023 season.
Here is the projected depth chart for LSU’s quarterback room in 2025:
Garrett Nussmeier
The starting job is filled with Nussmeier returning for his fifth season. He saw time through his true freshman year then further developed behind Heisman winner Jayden Daniels in 2022 and 2023. Head coach Brian Kelly gives him credit for staying loyal to his home state school and taking advantage of his position as the starter.
The Lake Charles, LA native passed for 3,739 yards and 26 touchdowns in 2024. He needs to average 281 passing yards per game in 2025 to set the all-time passing mark. With help for the passing game coming from the transfer portal with three wide receivers and versatile tight end, Nussmeier will not only get a great chance to set a record but also solidify LSU as a team to beat in the SEC.
The starting role is Nussmeier’s to lose.
Michael Van Buren Jr.
Van Buren’s experience gives him a leg up on Swann to win the backup battle. In his true freshman year, Van Buren was the starter at Mississippi State. He threw for 1,886 yards and 11 touchdowns but showed he has room for improvement. The Bowie, MD native was sacked 27 times and threw seven interceptions.
With a year underneath Nussmeier, Van Buren can polish his skills and be ready to takeover as the starter in 2026. For now, he is the most prepared to step into real game action should Nussmeier go down.
Colin Hurley
With Swann’s departure, Hurley assumes the third string role. He was a four-star recruit in the class of 2024 after reclassifying.
Hurley was young this fall and didn’t see any action. It’s still too early to gauge his true potential at LSU, but LSU fans should expect Hurley to stick around for now.