Garrett Nelson

Garrett Nelson (born March 1, 2000) is an American professional football linebacker. He played college football for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and was signed by the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He has also played for the San Antonio Brahmas of the United Football League (UFL).

Early life Nelson was born on March 1, 2000, to Chris and Holli Nelson. While attending Scottsbluff High School, he played defensive end for the football team. Across three seasons, Nelson recorded 150 tackles, 26 tackles-for-loss, and 18 sacks.

College career In 2019, Nelson played in 11 games and logged 15 tackles playing at outside linebacker.

Miami Dolphins After going unselected in the 2023 NFL draft, Nelson was signed by the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent on May 12, 2023. On August 28, Nelson was released by the Dolphins during final preseason roster cuts.

Cincinnati Bengals On September 6, Nelson signed with the Cincinnati Bengals' practice squad. On September 23, Nelson was released from the practice squad.

San Antonio Brahmas Nelson was a member of the UFL's San Antonio Brahmas during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, logging 24 tackles, three tackles-for-loss, two and a half sacks, and two forced fumbles over the course of seventeen games played. On August 26, he was waived as a part of final roster cutdowns.

New Orleans Saints (first stint) On September 4, Nelson signed to the Saints' practice squad after an injury to Chase Young. On October 7, Nelson's practice squad contract was terminated.

Denver Broncos (second stint) On October 14, Nelson signed with the Broncos' practice squad. On October 28, Nelson was released from the practice squad. Two weeks later, he was signed back onto the practice squad. On January 19, 2026, he was released from the practice squad again. On January 27, Nelson signed a reserve/futures contract with the Broncos. On May 8, he was waived by the Broncos.

Seattle Seahawks On August 4, 2026, Nelson signed with the Seattle Seahawks. He was waived the next day.

New Orleans Saints (second stint) On August 7, 2026, Nelson was claimed off waivers by the New Orleans Saints. He was waived on August 29.

Personal life Nelson's father was a two-time All-American college wrestler at Nebraska.