Mel Kiper Jr., the well-known ESPN NFL Draft analyst, recently shared his thoughts on the upcoming draft, and it's clear he's not quite sold on Ty Simpson when compared to Shedeur Sanders. During a discussion with Field Yates on "First Draft," Kiper made it known that the Cleveland Browns, who are evaluating quarterback prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft, shouldn't be too concerned about Simpson, the former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback.
Kiper confidently stated, "The Browns don’t have to worry about Ty Simpson. They got a better quarterback than Ty Simpson in Shedeur Sanders. Don’t go there."
Shedeur Sanders, who entered the NFL last season, began his college career at Jackson State under the guidance of his father, the legendary Deion Sanders, before transferring to Colorado. Despite his potential, Sanders experienced a surprising drop in the draft, eventually being selected by the Browns in the fifth round.
Starting his NFL journey as a third-string quarterback behind veterans Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel, Sanders worked his way up the depth chart. By Week 12, he earned his first start and ultimately finished the season as Cleveland's QB1. Over eight appearances, Sanders threw for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and ten interceptions.
Meanwhile, Ty Simpson showcased his skills as Alabama's starting quarterback in the 2025-26 season. In his sole year as QB1 for the Crimson Tide, Simpson delivered an impressive performance, passing for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and only five interceptions.
As the draft approaches, the Browns and other teams will continue to weigh their options, but Kiper's endorsement of Sanders over Simpson certainly adds an interesting layer to the conversation.