Alabama's Ty Simpson is turning heads as we edge closer to the 2026 NFL Draft. The buzz around this young quarterback is palpable, especially after leading Alabama to the quarterfinals in the College Football Playoff during his first full season as a starter. With that kind of performance, it's no wonder scouts are eyeing him as a potential first-round pick.
However, not everyone is sold on Simpson's first-round potential. ESPN's Jordan Reid shared his perspective on The Pat McAfee Show, where he discussed the possibility of the New York Jets selecting Simpson with their 16th pick.
Simpson's private workout with the Jets following Alabama's Pro Day certainly adds fuel to the speculation. But Reid points out a significant concern: Simpson's limited starting experience.
“I just don’t see Ty Simpson being that first-round quarterback,” Reid remarked. “I feel more comfortable taking him in the second round, especially considering this year’s quarterback class isn’t the strongest.
Teams are eager for quarterbacks, but the Jets at 16? That feels like a big gamble.”
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 208 pounds, Simpson put up impressive numbers last season. He threw for 3,567 yards, notched 28 touchdowns against just five interceptions, and posted a 145.2 passer rating, leading Alabama to an 11-4 record.
Alabama has a strong track record of producing top-tier quarterbacks. The last five have all been picked within the top 92 selections.
Simpson aims to join the ranks of Bryce Young, Tua Tagovailoa, and Mac Jones as another first-round success story from Alabama. The anticipation is building, and the draft will soon reveal where Simpson's journey continues.