Ty Simpson, the Alabama Crimson Tide redshirt junior quarterback, has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, making his announcement on Wednesday. At 23 years old, Simpson recently completed what was his first full season as a starter after spending three years as a backup.
In the 2025 season, Simpson showcased his skills by throwing for an impressive 3,567 yards, achieving 28 touchdowns while only throwing 5 interceptions across 15 games. His efforts contributed to Alabama’s 11-4 record and a trip to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. Unfortunately, the season came to a disappointing end with a 38-3 loss against top-ranked Indiana in the Rose Bowl, a game in which Simpson suffered a cracked rib during the third quarter.
Reflecting on the challenging season, Simpson remarked on the resilience of his teammates, pointing out how they overcame early setbacks, including a loss in their opening game against Florida State. “Just how resilient these guys were… Started off 0-1 losing to Florida State. Now made it to the Rose Bowl. Didn’t end the way we wanted it to,” he said, highlighting the unity and determination within the team throughout the trials they faced.
Simpson joined the Alabama program in 2022 and played under legendary coach Nick Saban during the final years of Saban’s illustrious tenure. He served as a backup to Bryce Young in 2022 and Jalen Milroe in 2023 and 2024 before finally taking over the starting role this past season.
His declaration for the NFL Draft marks him as the third Alabama underclassman to do so, following center Parker Brailsford and left tackle Kadyn Proctor. Currently, Simpson is ranked as the third-best quarterback prospect on Mel Kiper’s ESPN positional rankings, following Oregon’s Dante Moore and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza of Indiana, who are projected to be top picks.
Simpson’s journey and growth in the Alabama program serve as a testament to hard work and resilience, setting a hopeful tone as he embarks on his professional football career.