Ty Simpson Rises in 2026 NFL Draft Buzz, Projected as Top Pick Fit

Former Ty Simpson has emerged as one of the most closely watched quarterbacks in the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft, with his stock rising sharply in early projections. The former Alabama signal-caller is increasingly being discussed as a potential top-tier selection in a class still taking shape.

Recent commentary from analyst Dan Orlovsky, who described Simpson as the best quarterback in the draft class, has added to the growing attention surrounding his evaluation. That sentiment has been echoed in various early mock drafts across the league media landscape.

One of the most notable projections comes from NFL.com analyst Charles Davis, who has placed Simpson at No. 3 overall in his latest mock draft. His prediction links Simpson to the Arizona Cardinals, signaling a possible early quarterback investment.

As the draft conversation continues to evolve, Simpson’s name has become a focal point in discussions about quarterback-needy teams and how early selections may unfold in 2026.

1. Rising Draft Stock and Analyst Debate

Simpson’s ascent in draft projections reflects a broader debate within scouting circles about the top quarterback in the class. While some evaluators continue to favor other prospects such as Fernando Mendoza, Simpson’s momentum has steadily increased. Analysts point to his production and development trajectory as key reasons for his rising status. His final collegiate season at Alabama provided his first full opportunity as a starter, offering a larger sample size for evaluation. The debate has been fueled by contrasting opinions on readiness versus long-term upside, with Simpson frequently cited as one of the more polished passers available. As a result, his draft position has varied widely in early mock drafts, ranging from mid-first-round projections to potential top-five consideration.

2. Projection to Arizona and Draft Comparisons

In Charles Davis’ latest projection, Simpson is selected third overall by the Cardinals, a move he acknowledges may not align with Arizona’s original draft position. However, he sees the pairing as a logical fit based on team needs and draft dynamics. Davis compared the situation to the New York Giants’ selection of Jaxson Dart in the 2025 draft cycle, where initial projections differed from the eventual outcome. The comparison highlights how draft movement and trades can reshape expectations. He suggested that while the Cardinals may not begin the draft in position to select Simpson, the process could still result in a match if circumstances shift on draft night. The projection reflects a broader understanding that quarterback demand often drives aggressive draft-day decisions, especially for teams seeking long-term stability at the position.

3. College Career and NFL Outlook

Simpson concluded his college career at Alabama Crimson Tide after spending four seasons with the program, including three years in a backup role before taking over as starter in the 2025–26 season. In his lone year as the primary quarterback, he delivered a strong statistical campaign, passing for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns while completing 64.5% of his attempts. The performance marked a significant step forward in his development. His experience in Alabama’s system provided exposure to high-level competition and pro-style concepts, factors that evaluators consider important in his transition to the NFL. As the draft process unfolds, teams will continue to weigh his production against questions of experience and ceiling, but his breakout season has clearly positioned him as one of the most discussed quarterbacks in the class.