The 2026 NFL Draft delivered a jaw-dropping moment that had fans scrambling for Google. With the 223rd overall pick, the Washington Commanders selected Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis—a name that left even die-hard draft enthusiasts scratching their heads. The reason for the confusion? LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, once projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick, was still on the board.
Nussmeier’s fall from grace has been one of the most dramatic in recent draft history. After entering the season as a top prospect, the Tigers quarterback struggled mightily in a disappointing 7-6 campaign. His final nine starts produced just 1,927 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and five interceptions—numbers that sent his draft stock into a tailspin. But even with those struggles, few expected a quarterback from the bottom half of the Big Ten to be selected ahead of him on Day 3.
Who Is Athan Kaliakmanis?
Kaliakmanis, a Rutgers product, threw for over 3,000 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2025. However, for casual fans and even some hardcore draft followers, he was largely an unknown. Social media erupted when the pick was announced, with one user posting, “im not gonna pretend i know who this is but the name alone sounds like he was born to be a washington qb.” Another fan bluntly asked, “who the f—k is this.”
The confusion was widespread. “What did Nussmeier do in those interviews??” one observer wondered, while another fan lamented, “LITERALLY ANYONE BUT GARRETT NUSSMEIER 😭😭😭😭😭✌🏾.” The reaction summed up the disbelief that a quarterback with Nussmeier’s pedigree could be passed over for a relatively obscure signal-caller.
Why Nussmeier Fell
Nussmeier’s slide wasn’t just about poor performance. Injury concerns also played a role, as he dealt with physical issues during his senior season. While his talent had once made him a household name, the combination of underwhelming tape and health red flags caused teams to look elsewhere. The Commanders, in particular, chose to roll the dice on Kaliakmanis, a move that left many questioning their strategy.
Nussmeier’s long wait finally ended at pick 249, when the Kansas City Chiefs selected him near the bottom of the draft. It was a humbling conclusion for a player who once dreamed of hearing his name called early on Thursday night. For some, landing in Kansas City could be a blessing in disguise, giving him a chance to learn behind a proven system.
Fan Reactions and Draft Day Drama
The reaction to Kaliakmanis’ selection highlighted the unpredictability of the draft. One fan summed it up simply: “This is crazy.” Indeed, the moment served as a reminder that even in a data-driven league, surprises still happen. For Nussmeier, the fall was painful, but it also opened the door for a fresh start in Kansas City. Meanwhile, the Commanders’ pick of Kaliakmanis will be remembered as one of the most baffling moments of the 2026 draft—at least until the rookie proves his worth on the field.
As the dust settles, Nussmeier’s journey from potential No. 1 pick to seventh-round afterthought is a cautionary tale. But in the NFL, where second chances are common, his story is far from over. For now, though, fans are left wondering: Who is Athan Kaliakmanis, and why did he go before a former star?
