Ty Simpson's Pro Day: A Strong Case for the First Round
Alabama's Ty Simpson stepped up to the plate during his pro day, aiming to solidify his status as a first-round pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. With scouts from all 32 teams watching closely, Simpson delivered a performance that underscored why he's still a hot commodity, even in a draft class that lacks depth at the quarterback position.
A Closer Look at Simpson's Performance
In Tuscaloosa, Simpson didn't have the flashy, headline-grabbing day that some past prospects have enjoyed, but he did enough to turn heads and address lingering concerns. An NFC executive noted, "I thought his arm was a little above average on tape, but it’s much stronger than I anticipated after seeing him up close." This kind of feedback suggests that Simpson's physical tools might be even more impressive in person.
Last season, Simpson showcased his skills by completing 64.5% of his passes for 3,567 yards, with 28 touchdowns against just five interceptions. His leadership took Alabama to the SEC championship game and a College Football Playoff victory over Oklahoma, highlighting his ability to perform on big stages.
Strengths and Challenges
Simpson's arm strength and accuracy are well-regarded, and his pocket presence is arguably the best among this year's quarterback prospects. However, his limited starting experience-just 15 games-raises questions. Historically, quarterbacks with fewer college starts have faced challenges in the NFL, with Cam Newton being a notable exception.
Despite this, ESPN's Field Yates believes Simpson's draft stock remains strong, stating, "Simpson is the clear-cut second-best QB prospect. His first half of last season was far too strong and there are too many teams that need a QB in the first round for him to not be selected on Thursday." Yates even suggests there's a 90% chance Simpson will hear his name called in the first round.
Potential Landing Spots
The New York Jets are among the teams linked to Simpson, though they have the luxury of waiting until 2027 to make a quarterback decision, thanks to their trio of first-round picks in that draft. Meanwhile, teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers might be more eager to secure their quarterback of the future this year.
As the draft approaches, Simpson's pro day performance has certainly kept him in the conversation as a top quarterback prospect. Whether it's the Jets or another team with quarterback needs, Simpson's blend of talent and potential makes him an intriguing option for any franchise looking to bolster its future under center.