Two Tigers Included In ESPN's Early First-Round NFL Mock Draft

Matt Miller of ESPN revealed a 2026 NFL mock draft: Early predictions for first-round picks article this week, and included LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier and defensive end Patrick Payton.

Miller has Nussmeier slipping to No. 11 to the Indianapolis Colts as the second quarterback selected in the draft behind Clemson's Cade Klubnik, who Miller predicts will go No. 1 overall to the Cleveland Browns.

As for Payton, Miller predicts that the Florida State transfer will go No. 22 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

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11. Indianapolis Colts
Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU

Anthony Richardson's injuries and lack of development led to the Colts signing Daniel Jones this offseason. Barring major improvement from Richardson (or a breakthrough by Jones), Indianapolis will be in search of a quarterback. Nussmeier showed flashes in his first season as a starter, throwing for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. The son of Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier, Garrett plays with fire and energy and isn't afraid to take chances. If he cuts down on his interceptions, Nussmeier has the velocity, accuracy and playmaking ability to move up draft boards.

22. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Patrick Payton, Edge, LSU

Payton has been on scouts' radar since 2022, flashing as a freshman at Florida State before compiling seven sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss as a sophomore in 2023. He struggled along with the rest of the Seminoles in 2024, with his sack total falling to four. He'll look to regain his first-round status at LSU in 2025. If he does, Payton would be an intriguing fit for the Buccaneers, as his quickness and speed off the edge would be an ideal match to the power that defensive tackles Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey possess.

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