New mock draft predicts slide for Alabama QB Ty Simpson

Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson is widely considered the second-best passer in the 2026 NFL Draft behind Indiana Hoosiers QB Fernando Mendoza (6-foot-5, 236 pounds), but that doesn't guarantee he'll be a first-rounder. 

On Monday, ESPN's Matt Miller said he could see Simpson slide during the draft (scheduled April 23-25 in Pittsburgh), as Cleveland Browns QB Shedeur Sanders (pick No. 144 in the fifth round) did last year. His colleagues agree.

Ty Simpson falls into the second round in a new mock draft

In a three-round mock draft published Thursday, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. had the New York Jets selecting Simpson with pick No. 33 in the second round. New York could also consider using one of its first-rounders (picks No. 2 and No. 16) on the Alabama star, but history shows spending high draft capital on an inexperienced QB is ill-advised. Simpson started 15 games in four seasons in Tuscaloosa, below the threshold for successful pros (25-30 starts). 

"There isn't as much risk in taking Simpson — who had just 15 career starts, all in 2025 — in Round 2," wrote Kiper. "The Jets can roll Geno Smith out and let Simpson develop a bit. I like his pocket presence and accuracy, but he will need some time." 

Would Ty Simpson be available for the Jets in Round 2? 

The QB class, however, is weak, which may push Simpson up draft boards. He flashed the arm talent scouts are looking for throughout the 2025 season, tying for 12th in the FBS in touchdown passes (28) and ranking 11th in passing yards (3,567). 

"There's enough on Simpson's tape to believe he can thrive with more seasoning," wrote CBS Sports' Mike Renner in a story published Wednesday. "Because of that, I fully expect him to be a first-round pick come April 23." 

Another scout told Fox Sports' Ralph Vacchiano Simpson (6-foot-1, 211 pounds) reminds him of San Francisco 49ers QB Brock Purdy (6-foot-1, 220 pounds). 

"He's a better prospect [than Purdy]," the scout said in the article published Wednesday. "But the point is that he's got the tools, and if the right guy develops him, he'll be good." 

The 49ers selected Purdy with the last pick (No. 262) of the 2022 draft. He was even more experienced than Simpson, starting 46 games in four seasons with the Iowa State Cyclones and attempting 1,467 passes. Simpson, meanwhile, threw 523 passes at Alabama.

Simpson may have intriguing tools, but most QBs taken in the first round of the draft play during their rookie season. It appears the QB may not be ready to do so. Considering that, squads who are interested may wait until the second round to grab the signal-caller. It would put less pressure on the 23-year-old and give him more time to develop.