Ty Simpson's journey as Alabama's starting quarterback has been one to watch, especially with the inevitable comparisons to Mac Jones. Both quarterbacks share the dream of turning a single standout season with the Crimson Tide into a first-round NFL draft pick. As the 2026 NFL draft approaches, Simpson is gearing up to showcase his skills at the NFL Scouting Combine, and his story is shaping up to mirror that of Jones.
Simpson is widely regarded as the second-best quarterback prospect in the upcoming draft, trailing only Indiana's Fernando Mendoza. His performance in Indianapolis will be under the microscope, with many drawing parallels to Jones, who also made a significant leap from college to the pros.
NFL.com has highlighted these comparisons, noting that Simpson's path may require patience and a well-defined developmental plan. According to NFL analyst Lance Zierlein, Simpson is "mechanically sound," particularly in his footwork and release. However, his "timing and anticipation" need refinement, and his arm talent is considered "average" in terms of velocity.
In his lone season as a starter, Simpson led the SEC with 305 completions out of 473 attempts, amassing 3,567 passing yards, 30 total touchdowns, and just five interceptions. These numbers reflect a solid foundation, though there are areas for growth as he transitions to the next level.
The 2026 NFL draft is set for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, where Simpson will look to solidify his status as a top-tier quarterback prospect. As he steps into this pivotal moment, the comparisons to Mac Jones will continue to be a storyline, but Simpson is poised to carve out his own legacy.