Jets reporter sends clear message about ongoing Ty Simpson draft rumors

Mock drafts updated throughout the recent NFL offseason meetings repeatedly linked a New York Jets team in need of a long-term answer at quarterback with Alabama Crimson Tide star Ty Simpson.

On the latest edition of the "Jets Final Drive" program, team reporter Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic explained why he is "pretty confident that" the Jets won't take Simpson with the 16th overall pick of the player-selection process on the night of April 23. 

Why Jets may not view Ty Simpson as a first-round draft pick

"[Jets general manager Darren Mougey] was asked about Ty Simpson and his lack of experience, and ... he did say you prefer to have as much work out there, as much film out there to study as you can about a guy," Rosenblatt explained. 

Rosenblatt was referencing the fact that Simpson recorded only 15 starts during his college career. Additionally, the supposed lack of "NFL throws" that Simpson made while with Alabama allegedly could cause him to fall to the draft's second day. 

Rosenblatt does think that the Jets possibly grabbing Simpson with the draft's 33rd overall pick could be an "interesting" idea. 

What teams may take a flier on Ty Simpson? 

"I do think the Jets are not gonna draft somebody who is that much of a wild card that early," Rosenblatt said about the club possibly acquiring Simpson in the first round. 

Meanwhile, Rosenblatt thinks the Philadelphia Eagles or the Los Angeles Rams could consider taking a flier on Simpson before the Jets can get him after pick No. 16. The Eagles may want to send a message to quarterback Jalen Hurts about his future with the franchise beyond the 2026 season. Meanwhile, the Rams should at least consider thinking about life after Matthew Stafford sooner rather than later. 

As for the Jets, they could be among the teams that either become or are already interested in LSU Tigers star Garrett Nussmeier and/or Miami's Carson Beck. Nussmeier may emerge as a Day 2 pick, while Beck probably will still be on the board when the draft's third round gets underway.