Ty Simpson, Alabama’s resilient redshirt junior quarterback, has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft after leading the Crimson Tide to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals in his first full season as a starter.
Ty Simpson, the redshirt junior quarterback from Alabama, has officially announced his entry into the 2026 NFL Draft. This decision comes on the heels of a standout season where Simpson demonstrated resilience and leadership, guiding the Crimson Tide to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals.
A Breakthrough Season
Simpson’s 2025 season was a defining one. Taking over as the full-time starter after three seasons as a backup, he threw for an impressive 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and only 5 interceptions across 15 games. His performance was a testament to his growth and readiness for the next level.
Alabama’s journey this past season was marked by adversity and triumph. The team started with a loss but rallied to finish 11-4, showcasing Simpson’s ability to lead under pressure. His resilience was further highlighted in the Rose Bowl, where he played through a cracked rib in a tough 38-3 loss to Indiana.
From Backup to Leader
Simpson’s path to becoming Alabama’s starting quarterback was not straightforward. Arriving in Tuscaloosa in 2022, he initially played behind Bryce Young and then Jalen Milroe. His perseverance and dedication during these years laid the foundation for his successful 2025 campaign.
Reflecting on the season, Simpson shared, “Just how resilient these guys were. How much it meant to everybody. Starting off losing the first game, losing my first start, all the doubt, all the scrutiny we all took, how we all came together and how we all were going to fight for each other.”
Draft Prospects and Rankings
Simpson is the third Alabama underclassman to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, following center Parker Brailsford and left tackle Kadyn Proctor. He is currently ranked as the third-best quarterback prospect by ESPN, behind Oregon’s Dante Moore and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza of Indiana.
Both Moore and Mendoza are expected to be the top two picks in the draft, making Simpson’s position as the third-ranked quarterback a significant achievement and a testament to his potential at the professional level.
What This Means for Alabama and the NFL
Simpson’s declaration for the draft marks the end of an era for Alabama and the beginning of a new chapter for the quarterback. His journey from a backup to a leader on one of the most prestigious college football teams highlights his determination and skill.
For the NFL, Simpson represents a promising talent with a proven track record of resilience and performance under pressure. His ability to lead a team through adversity and his strong arm and accuracy make him a valuable prospect for any team looking to bolster their quarterback roster.
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on Simpson to see where he lands and how he transitions to the professional level. His story is one of perseverance, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
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