Alabama QB Ty Simpson Sees Unexpected Draft Buzz

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches in April, Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson remains one of the most polarizing prospects in this year’s class. Many evaluators view him as a significant uncertainty, with widespread skepticism about his overall ceiling as a professional signal-caller.

Critics frequently point to his absence of standout elite traits and what they describe as average athletic ability, which contributes to the prevailing doubt surrounding his potential at the next level.

Despite the broader consensus leaning negative, a minority of analysts see untapped upside in Simpson’s game. Among them is Fox Sports commentator Joel Klatt, who stands out as a notable proponent. Klatt has expressed strong confidence in the former Alabama starter, positioning him higher on his personal board than most observers.

In his recent mock draft projection, Klatt slotted Simpson to the Pittsburgh Steelers with the 21st overall selection. This placement reflects his belief that the young passer possesses qualities that could translate effectively in the NFL.

“I really like Ty Simpson from Alabama,” Klatt said. “I’m higher on Simpson than most. You can make the argument that someone’s going to trade up and get Ty Simpson. This guy makes all the throws.”

Simpson’s 2025 campaign with the Crimson Tide provided a solid statistical foundation that supports some optimism. Across 15 games, he completed 305 of 473 passes for a 64.5% completion rate, accumulating 3,567 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and only five interceptions.

Those numbers highlight efficiency and ball security, marking an impressive output for a quarterback in one of college football’s most demanding programs.

However, performance was not consistent throughout the season. Simpson started strong, particularly in the early portion of the schedule. Over his first nine contests, he delivered 21 touchdown passes against just a single interception, demonstrating sharp decision-making and productivity.

“I know he’s not a huge player But if you turn on the tape and watch some of the throws he makes, they are NFL throws,” Klatt said. “Anticipatory throws, he throws with great leverage on the outside. He was phenomenal for big stretches.”

The latter stages of the year told a different story, as Simpson’s effectiveness declined noticeably. Injuries played a substantial role in this downturn. He battled through a lower back issue and elbow bursitis before ultimately exiting Alabama’s Rose Bowl defeat to Indiana with a fractured rib. These health challenges offer a reasonable explanation for the struggles in the final games and postseason.

One persistent concern among scouts involves Simpson’s limited starting experience. He amassed only 15 career starts at the collegiate level, a relatively low total that historically correlates with challenges transitioning to the pros. This factor fuels much of the hesitation about his readiness and long-term viability in the NFL.

Questions also linger about whether Simpson can break from the pattern of Alabama quarterbacks who have often struggled to find sustained success in professional football. The Crimson Tide has produced numerous high-profile passers over the years, yet many have failed to meet expectations at the next stage.

Still, Simpson’s early-season dominance and ability to make difficult throws keep him firmly in the conversation. Currently regarded as the No. 2 quarterback prospect available in this draft class, his trajectory could shift based on pre-draft evaluations, medical reports, and team workouts in the coming weeks.

With the draft just months away, Simpson’s landing spot—and whether he hears his name called on Day 1—will depend on how teams weigh his production against the red flags.

If a franchise buys into the flashes of brilliance highlighted by supporters like Klatt, he could emerge as a valuable addition despite the prevailing doubts.