Former NFL QB shares warning for Jets amid Ty Simpson rumors

Whether or not the New York Jets could or should make Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson the 16th or 33rd overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft continues to generate discussion amid whispers that Simpson will remain available through the end of the draft's first round. 

During a recent chat with Al Iannazzone of Newsday, former NFL quarterback and current analyst Danny Kanell shared a warning for the Jets regarding Simpson. 

Why Danny Kanell thinks Jets should pass on Ty Simpson

"He’s the second-best quarterback in the draft, but I think it is a reach to take him at 16 or really anywhere in the first round," Kanell said about Simpson. "I think he’s a second-rounder all day long. I also think that would be helpful for Ty Simpson." 

Some are convinced that the Jets bringing journeyman Geno Smith back to the organization shows that those running the club are already thinking about targeting a top-tier quarterback prospect during the 2027 NFL Draft. Kanell didn't go quite that far, but he seems to believe that Simpson would not thrive while sharing a quarterback room with Smith. 

"You brought Geno Smith in there to be the bridge quarterback who’s going to mentor a young quarterback, but you know how it goes, especially in New York," Kanell continued. "There’s going to be an immense amount of pressure for Ty Simpson to play. If he’s a second-round pick, it’s a little bit easier to say we’re going to take the longer, patient road than it is with 16th overall." 

Should Jets take a flier on Ty Simpson in the draft's second round?

Kanell believes the Jets should draft the top wide receiver on their board with pick No. 16. He also hinted that Gang Green should pass on grabbing Simpson at choice No. 33. 

"This is a great year to have a lot of picks," Kanell added. "It is a pretty deep class of really quality players. So I think that’s one where the Jets really should use some patience on the quarterback and maybe wait until the fourth or fifth round. This is the year that you don’t want to be reaching on the quarterbacks because the class overall is not very good."

Specifically, the Jets have been linked with Penn State quarterback Drew Allar. Miami's Carson Beck could also be an option for the Jets. 

"I would rather have a guy like Carson Beck in maybe the third or fourth round," Kanell explained. "He’s won everywhere he’s been. I know the injury is a concern, but that is a surgery that takes some time to come back from when you have that ulnar nerve that he’s come back from. I think he could be somebody. He’s got the frame. He’s got the size. He’s big, he’s physical, and I actually think his style of play is closer to Geno Smith’s, where he could watch a guy like Geno Smith, and you don’t have to reach for him in the draft."