Ty Simpson 2026 NFL Draft: Scouting Report & Profile
The NFL Draft process is now in full swing, with teams meticulously evaluating college talent. Scouts are dissecting game film, analyzing statistics, and attending pro days to identify potential franchise players. Today, we focus on Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, a redshirt junior who declared for the draft after a promising, yet limited, starting season.
A Late Bloomer with Upside
Simpson, 6’2” and 208 pounds, entered the 2025 season with minimal starting experience. After years of waiting behind other quarterbacks, he finally took the helm for the Crimson Tide, leading them to the College Football Playoff before falling to Indiana. His decision to forgo additional college eligibility and enter the NFL draft presents both opportunity and uncertainty.
Strengths on Display
Evaluations highlight Simpson’s mental acuity. He excels at processing reads both before and after the snap, consistently working through multiple progressions. He demonstrates a willingness to attack the middle of the field and isn’t content with short, conservative passes when opportunities exist downfield. Simpson also displays a quick release and good velocity on short-to-intermediate throws, maintaining poise under pressure.
Areas for Improvement
Despite his strengths, Simpson’s game isn’t without flaws. Scouts note a tendency to retreat from the pocket when facing pressure, rather than stepping up to extend plays. He sometimes holds onto the ball too long, leading to sacks, and needs to improve his decision-making when under duress. Physical concerns include a lean frame and a propensity for taking hits, as well as a lack of consistent deep-ball accuracy.
Statistical Overview
In 15 starts during the 2025 season, Simpson completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns, with only 5 interceptions. He also contributed 93 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns on 90 attempts. However, receiver drops significantly impacted his adjusted completion percentage, which stood at 75%. He was sacked 30 times in 164 passing attempts, a pressure-to-sack ratio of 18.3%.
Injury Concerns and Background
Simpson’s 2025 season was also hampered by injuries, including elbow bursitis, gastritis, and a lingering lower back injury. He suffered a cracked rib in the Rose Bowl against Indiana. Prior to his starting role, he saw limited action in 2023 and 2024. His father, Jason Simpson, is the long-time head coach at UT Martin.
NFL Projection and Comparisons
Analysts project Simpson as a potential late first-round to early second-round pick. His skillset draws comparisons to Marc Bulger at his ceiling and Jimmy Garoppolo as a potential floor. The Pittsburgh Steelers, in particular, are mentioned as a possible destination given their need for a franchise quarterback and the arrival of new head coach Mike McCarthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ty Simpson’s biggest strength?
His biggest strength is his mental processing and ability to work through his reads, both before and after the snap. He consistently looks to make plays downfield and isn’t afraid to challenge tight windows.
What are the primary concerns surrounding Ty Simpson?
The primary concerns are his lack of starting experience, tendency to retreat from pressure, and inconsistencies with deep throws. His injury history and lean frame also raise questions about his durability.
What is Ty Simpson’s NFL projection?
He is projected to be selected in the late first round or early second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Given Ty Simpson’s intriguing blend of potential and areas for development, how much weight will NFL teams place on his limited starting experience when evaluating his long-term prospects?