Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson declaring for NFL Draft
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Alabama will once again be looking for a new starting quarterback next season.
Ty Simpson announced Wednesday he will be declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft after spending four seasons in Tuscaloosa including starting in 2025. Simpson posted to Instagram with his decision.
“That first visit from Saban was surreal. Coach told me straight up it wasn’t going to be easy but he told me if I trusted the process, it would be a ride worth taking. I chose Alabama then and I would do it a thousand times over… It wasn’t all perfect and it didn’t have to be but every moment had meaning and I gave Alabama my all. And I got so much more in return. Coach Saban was right: it was all worth it. I’m proud to be a part of this legacy… I’ll cherish all of it as I take the next step for preparing for the NFL Draft. It will always and forever be about Bama. Roll Tide.”
Ty Simpson
Ty Simpson
Simpson was a rarity in today’s college football landscape, staying at one school for four years while sitting behind two different quarterbacks before being named the starter. He was recruited by coach Nick Saban but stuck around when Kalen DeBoer took over.
In his final season, Simpson led the Crimson Tide to the SEC Championship Game and the College Football Playoff. His final numbers included:
- 3,567 passing yards
- 28 passing TDs (2 rushing TDs)
- 5 interceptions
- 64.5 completion percentage
- 11-4 record
It’s not a choice to stay at Alabama. You just are Alabama or you’re not.
Ty Simpson
Simpson was in the top 3 of the Heisman Trophy odds in late October but some struggles arrived late in the season. The quarterback was reportedly dealing with multiple injuries during the College Football Playoff before being taken out of the Indiana game with backup Austin Mack taking over.
Mack will be one of the frontrunners to take the starting job next season along with rising sophomore Keelon Russell.
2026 NFL Draft
Simpson was projected as the No. 1 overall pick by multiple outlets earlier this season but he started to fall down the draft boards later in the year.
Still, Simpson is projected to be a top 3-5 quarterback off the board which could result in being selected in the first round.
The NFL Draft will be held in Pittsburgh April 23-25 and will air on ABC, ESPN and NFL Network.
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