Ty Simpson Makes His Case as QB2 Behind Mendoza in 2026 NFL Draft Race

As the 2026 NFL Draft quarterback conversation takes shape, Fernando Mendoza has emerged as the clear top prospect at the position. Behind him, however, a competitive group of passers continues to battle for positioning as the second quarterback off the board.

Among that group, Ty Simpson of Alabama remains one of the strongest contenders. On Wednesday, he took another step in making his case during Alabama’s Pro Day, performing in front of NFL scouts and executives evaluating quarterback talent.

Simpson’s workout came at a critical stage in the pre-draft process, where teams are weighing production, potential, and leadership traits. For him, the day represented an opportunity to reinforce what he believes separates him from other quarterbacks in his class.

Following his on-field performance, Simpson spoke directly about his identity as a player, emphasizing his commitment to team culture and competitive drive as defining parts of his profile.

1. Pro Day Platform and Draft Positioning

Simpson’s Pro Day provided a structured setting for NFL evaluators to reexamine his tools and decision-making. With scripted throws and controlled drills, he aimed to demonstrate consistency and command of the offense. While Mendoza is widely projected as the top quarterback in the class, Simpson is frequently listed as QB2 on several major draft boards, including ESPN, NBC Sports, and CBS Sports. That positioning reflects both his production and perceived developmental ceiling. The Pro Day setting is particularly important for quarterbacks in Simpson’s position, where pre-draft evaluation can significantly influence draft stock. For Simpson, each throw carried added weight in reinforcing his standing among evaluators. Though not a full-contact game environment, the workout still served as a valuable reference point for scouts assessing his mechanics, timing, and leadership presence under structured conditions.

2. Production and Growth at Alabama

Simpson’s path at Alabama was defined by patience and gradual progression. Over four seasons, he appeared in 31 games but did not secure a full-time starting role until the 2025 campaign. Once given the opportunity, he delivered a strong statistical season. Simpson completed 64.5 percent of his passes for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, earning Second-team All-SEC honors. His late emergence as a starter is a key part of his evaluation. NFL teams are tasked with balancing his limited starting experience against his efficiency and production once he assumed full control of the offense. At Alabama, one of college football’s most demanding programs, Simpson’s ability to step into the starting role and perform under pressure has been viewed as a meaningful indicator of his adaptability.

3. Intangibles and NFL Projection

Beyond statistics, Simpson’s draft case is heavily influenced by intangible qualities that teams prioritize at the quarterback position. His leadership style and competitiveness have become central talking points among evaluators. Speaking after Pro Day, Simpson described himself as a player committed to team success and collective goals, emphasizing his desire to be part of something larger than individual achievement. That message aligns with what many franchises seek in franchise quarterbacks. Scouts acknowledge that while Simpson’s starting sample size is limited, his trajectory at Alabama suggests steady growth and the ability to adjust to higher levels of responsibility. His development curve is often cited as one of his strongest attributes. As the draft process continues, Simpson’s combination of production, leadership traits, and program pedigree keeps him firmly in the conversation for a high selection. Teams evaluating the quarterback class will continue to weigh whether his upside justifies a second-round or potentially higher investment.