Here’s a bold statement: The quarterback pipeline from Alabama to the NFL is about to add another name, but this one comes with a twist. Ty Simpson, the 23-year-old redshirt junior, has officially declared his intention to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, and it’s already sparking conversations. But here’s where it gets controversial: With just 15 college starts under his belt, is Simpson ready for the big leagues, or is he banking on potential over proven performance? Let’s dive in.
On Wednesday, Simpson took to Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTNwU75EVEj/?igsh=ZDYwNWd6dTk5a3p1) to share his decision, marking the next step in a career that’s been both promising and puzzling. As a one-year starter for the Crimson Tide, he followed in the footsteps of Alabama’s long line of NFL-caliber quarterbacks. In 2025, he led the team to the SEC Championship Game and the College Football Playoff, securing a notable win over Oklahoma. But the season took a turn when Alabama was unexpectedly blown out by Indiana in the quarterfinal, and Simpson’s night ended early due to a rib injury in the third quarter.
Statistically, Simpson’s 2025 campaign was solid: he completed 305 of 473 passes (64.5%) for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just five interceptions across 15 games. He also added two rushing touchdowns to his resume. However, his journey hasn’t been without challenges. After committing to Nick Saban and Alabama, Simpson spent his early years as a backup—first behind Heisman winner Bryce Young (https://www.nfl.com/players/bryce-young/) in 2022, and later to Jalen Milroe (https://www.nfl.com/players/jalen-milroe/), who was drafted by the Seahawks in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. During those three seasons, Simpson appeared in just 16 games, completing 29 of 50 passes for 381 yards and three rushing touchdowns.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and 208 pounds, Simpson possesses the physical tools of a starter, even if he’s not considered an elite athlete. His arm talent, footwork, and operational skills are impressive, but there’s no denying he still has room to grow. Late in the 2025 regular season, he showed signs of inconsistency, particularly with his downfield touch and ball placement. Yet, the foundation is there for him to develop into an NFL starter—given time and the right coaching.
And this is the part most people miss: Simpson’s football IQ is off the charts, thanks in part to his lineage. As the son of longtime college coach Jason Simpson, a former Mississippi State quarterback who has led UT Martin for the past 20 seasons, Ty grew up immersed in the game. This background could be his secret weapon as he transitions to the pros.
But here’s the question that’s dividing fans: Can Simpson’s potential outweigh his limited starting experience? With just 15 college starts, he’s a wildcard in a draft class filled with quarterbacks who have more extensive resumes. Is he the next big thing, or is he jumping the gun? Let us know what you think in the comments—this is one debate that’s far from over.
