
Fri Jan 09 04:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Alabama Quarterback Ty Simpson Declares for NFL Draft After Single Season as Starter
The Story:
Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson has announced he will forgo his senior year and enter the NFL draft. This decision comes after leading the Crimson Tide to an 11-4 record in 2025, his first season as the starting quarterback, succeeding Jalen Milroe. Despite late-season struggles and a cracked rib sustained in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal loss to Indiana, Simpson received reportedly favorable NFL draft grades, compelling him to pursue a professional career. Simpson’s father, Jason Simpson, stated that all NFL general managers contacted gave Ty Simpson first-round grades.
Key Points:
- Ty Simpson declared for the NFL draft after one season as Alabama’s starting quarterback.
- He completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,567 yards with 28 touchdowns and 5 interceptions in 2025.
- Simpson suffered a cracked rib in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal against Indiana.
- His father, Jason Simpson, claims he received first-round draft grades from every NFL general manager they contacted.
- Simpson had offers to transfer to other Power 4 schools like Miami, Oregon, and Tennessee.
- He replaced Jalen Milroe as the starter after Milroe was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2025 draft.
- ESPN NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Simpson as the third-best quarterback eligible for the draft.
- Coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb were informed of Simpson’s decision.
Key Takeaways:
- Despite a relatively short tenure as a starter, Simpson’s perceived NFL potential is high enough to warrant entering the draft.
- The lure of a potential first-round selection is a powerful incentive for college players, even those who might benefit from another year of development.
- The transfer portal remains a significant factor, as Simpson considered other collegiate opportunities.
- The comments from Simpson’s father regarding NFL draft grades should be taken with caution, as they are inherently biased.
- The Alabama football program continues to be a fertile ground for producing NFL-caliber quarterbacks.