The NFL Combine is buzzing with anticipation in Indianapolis, where top college prospects are showcasing their skills in hopes of catching the eyes of GMs and coaches. The stakes are high as these athletes aim to prove they have what it takes to help their future teams reach Super Bowl glory.
As always, the quarterback position is drawing a lot of attention. Indiana's Fernando Mendoza is the frontrunner to be the No. 1 pick for the Las Vegas Raiders, but beyond him, the quarterback landscape is less clear.
Ty Simpson is another name generating buzz. According to draft guru Mel Kiper Jr., Simpson has first-round potential, drawing comparisons to Alabama's Mac Jones.
Kiper noted, "Ty’s a faster, more athletic Mac Jones. Early in the season, he looked like a top prospect, but injuries and a hit from Indiana's D’Angelo Ponds in the Rose Bowl took a toll. Before mid-November, he had 22 touchdown passes and only 2 interceptions."
Simpson's late-season struggles were reportedly due to an illness that caused significant weight loss, affecting his performance.
Kiper also highlighted the challenges Simpson faced, saying, "He wasn’t getting much help from his O-line, and receivers were dropping passes. The running game was practically non-existent, forcing him to carry the team on his back. While he might not be in the elite top-5, if you're the Pittsburgh Steelers sitting at 21, he’s a sensible choice."
The Combine continues to be a pivotal moment for these young athletes as they work to solidify their draft positions and future careers in the NFL.