Ty Simpson is one of the top quarterbacks to watch ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. The junior gunslinger has established himself as one of the top prospects in the nation after leading the Alabama Crimson Tide to a 7-1 record through Week 10 of the college football season.
With a big game coming up against Garrett Nussmeier and the LSU Tigers, Simpson has a chance to not only keep pace with Heisman Trophy favorites like Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore, he has a chance to really show the nation and NFL scouts that he is very worthy of being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Standing at 6-foot-2, 208 pounds, Simpson has good size for a quarterback. He plays much bigger due to his athleticism and arm talent that has thrown for 2,184 yards with 20 touchdowns and just 1 interception. That’s a sign of his poise, quick decision-making and accuracy. Highlighted as one of Mel Kiper Jr’s top 5 prospects, Simpson’s lack of experience is his only downfall.
“His lack of experience might be a concern, as Simpson didn't start a game until this season, but the production is hard to ignore,” Kiper said in late October, “Simpson knows the game and competes on every down. He's a battler who is always trying to make a play -- sometimes to his detriment. And Simpson maneuvers well in the pocket and can beat defenses with his legs when the passing play isn't there.”
It's the competitiveness and big play ability that will stand out to teams looking for a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. But is he or will he be worthy of a top 10 pick? The remaining schedule for Alabama and how Simpson plays will answer that question.
3 NFL teams in position to land Ty Simpson
New York Jets:
The Jets now have two first round picks to play around with after the blockbuster trade involving Sauce Gardner. That puts the Jets in a position where they can package their picks to move up and grab the No. 1 overall pick if they really like whichever quarterback ends up being the prize of the draft. They could also stand pat with their projected top 5 pick and take a quarterback like Simpson.
The Jets are obviously resetting their roster and a competitive quarterback who can make plays inside and outside the pocket could be a great starting point for the Jets. Again, lack of experience as a starter, but the Simpson has the composure and decision making to grow within an offense, which he continues to show at Alabama.
Other QB options for the Jets: Fernando Mendoza, LaNorris Sellers, Dante Moore
Cleveland Browns:
The Browns are also in a great position with two first found picks. The draft will be deep enough at quarterback where the Browns could be patient. If the season ended now, they would be in position to take one of the top 4 quarterbacks in the draft. In Simpson, they will get a quarterback with a quick release who has showcases his ability to shine in big moments. The Browns have a great defense and a compliment of young players on both sides of the ball. Adding Simpson and perhaps another big wide receiver with their second first-round pick would make the Browns an interesting team to watch in 2026.
Other QB options for the Browns: Dante Moore, LaNorris Sellers, Garrett Nussmeier
New Orleans Saints:
The Saints are seeing what they have in 2025 NFL Draft second round pick Tyler Shough so they can decide what to do with their top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Which at this point is the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, the Saints will have their choice of Mendoza, Moore or Simpson. Depending on where they end up in the top 5, the best choice could be Simpson who would give the Saints a QB who can make plays with his legs. The Saints have ran RPO plays with Shough in the preseason, so they will see intrigue in Simpson as one of the more mobile QBs along with Moore and Sellers.
Other QB options for the Saints: Fernando Mendoza, Dante Moore, LaNorris Sellers