When LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier walks across the NFL Draft stage this weekend, his biggest cheerleader will be watching from the crowd—or more likely, refreshing her phone every few seconds. That's Ella Springfield, the woman who's been his rock through college football highs and a scary health scare.
Springfield isn't just any girlfriend. She's Nussmeier's fiancée, and she's built a loyal following of over 16,000 on Instagram by sharing their journey. Last summer, she announced their engagement with a beaming post: “Forever and always, yes yes yes.” And after LSU's senior day, she wrote, “Forever thankful for this chapter!! So grateful for God’s faithfulness and all He has planned next.”
It's that kind of unwavering support that's helped Nussmeier push through a career that didn't always go as planned. Once projected as a first-round pick, the Tigers' quarterback slipped to Day 2 of the draft. Still, ESPN's Matt Miller ranks him as the top quarterback left on his board, praising his “quick, smooth release” and ability to “layer his throws between levels of the defense.”
But Nussmeier's path hasn't been smooth. During his final season at LSU, a mysterious injury slowed him down. At the Scouting Combine, doctors discovered a cyst on his spine. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, medical testing revealed “no short- or long-term risk,” and Nussmeier is expected to be ready for offseason workouts. It's a relief for a player who fought through adversity to reach this moment.
Nussmeier's football pedigree also helps his draft stock. His father, Doug, is the offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints and played in the NFL from 1994 to 1999. That insider knowledge could give Garrett an edge as he transitions to the pros.
As Nussmeier's name gets called, Springfield is likely to see her own social media following explode. But for now, she's focused on one thing: being there for her future husband. It's a story that echoes other NFL support systems, like Kelly Stafford's warm welcome to Rams rookies, or the buzz around Clark's girlfriend stealing the Masters spotlight.
Nussmeier finished his LSU career with 7,699 passing yards, 52 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions. He's known for his confidence in his arm talent, though Miller notes that can sometimes backfire—he threw 12 picks in 2024. Still, his ability to anticipate routes and escape pressure makes him an intriguing mid-round prospect.
As the draft unfolds, all eyes will be on Nussmeier and the woman who's been by his side through it all. For Springfield, the next chapter is just beginning—and she's ready for it.
