Ty Simpson’s Draft Stock Hinges on Pro Day as QB Class Narrows Around Mendoza

The 2026 NFL Draft quarterback landscape is widely viewed as being anchored by a single top prospect, with Fernando Mendoza emerging as the clear favorite to be selected first overall. As a result, attention has increasingly turned to how the rest of the quarterback class will be evaluated.

Among the remaining signal-callers, Ty Simpson of Alabama has generated interest as a potential first-round selection, though his projection remains less certain. While some analysts place him in Day 1 consideration, others see him as more likely to come off the board on Day 2.

Simpson’s draft profile has been shaped by a mix of strengths and concerns. Questions about arm strength and deep-ball accuracy have been weighed against his composure, processing ability, and command of the offense.

With the NFL Draft approaching, upcoming events such as Alabama’s Pro Day are expected to play a significant role in clarifying Simpson’s standing among evaluators and potentially shifting perceptions of his overall ceiling.

1. Draft Position Still in Flux

Simpson’s current projection varies across mock drafts, with most placing him in the late first round or early second round range. That range reflects both his upside and the uncertainty surrounding his physical tools. Some analysts have suggested that a strong pre-draft process could elevate Simpson into mid-first-round consideration, though that outcome is far from guaranteed. His stock appears closely tied to how he performs in workouts and interviews leading up to the draft. Concerns about his consistency, particularly on deep throws, have contributed to the cautious evaluations. A rocky finish to the 2025 season also raised questions about whether he can maintain performance against higher-level competition. At the same time, his relatively limited college experience—recorded at just 15 career starts—means teams have less film to evaluate, adding another layer of uncertainty to his draft outlook.

2. Evaluators Highlight Processing Over Physical Traits

One of Simpson’s most frequently cited strengths is his ability to process information quickly and operate within the structure of an offense. That trait has become increasingly valued in modern NFL offenses. His pocket presence and decision-making have been described as steady, allowing him to identify defensive looks and react appropriately under pressure. This composure has helped offset some of the limitations in his arm talent. ESPN analyst Louis Riddick has pointed out that Simpson’s ability to read defenses and manage situations could appeal to teams prioritizing cognitive skills at the quarterback position. Riddick has suggested that Simpson’s arm strength may be underrated relative to current evaluations. In a league where offensive systems often emphasize quick reads and timing-based throws, quarterbacks who excel in processing can be viewed as having a higher floor, even if their physical traits are not elite.

3. Pro Day Viewed as Key Evaluation Opportunity

Alabama’s Pro Day represents a critical opportunity for Simpson to address lingering questions about his arm strength and overall athletic profile. Strong performances in scripted drills could help shift perceptions among scouts and executives. For quarterbacks on the borderline between rounds, Pro Day workouts often serve as a final impression before draft boards are finalized. In Simpson’s case, it may help clarify whether he is viewed as a developmental Day 2 option or a potential first-round investment. Teams that prioritize accuracy, timing, and decision-making over raw arm power may see Simpson as a fit within their offensive systems. His ability to demonstrate improved velocity and consistency in controlled settings could reinforce that appeal. With several quarterback-needy teams expected to evaluate the class closely, Simpson remains a candidate whose draft range could shift significantly based on pre-draft evaluations, making his upcoming Pro Day one of the more closely watched individual workouts in this cycle.