Ty Simpson Draft Grade | Round 1, Pick 13 | FanVerdicts

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Sentiment

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Fan Verdict

Sentiment Analysis

Scouting Report

Big Board Rank: #33 · Day 2 Value

Ty Simpson represents one of the most intriguing developmental quarterback prospects in the 2026 class, combining elite arm talent with questions about game management and decision-making. After taking over Alabama's starting role midway through his sophomore season, Simpson showcased the physical tools that made him a five-star recruit while also displaying the growing pains typical of young quarterers in high-pressure situations. His rocket arm and natural feel for extending plays with his mobility create exciting upside, but inconsistent accuracy on intermediate routes and occasional lapses in pocket awareness have prevented him from ascending to first-round consideration. Simpson's trajectory mirrors quarterbacks like Josh Allen or Anthony Richardson - prospects with jaw-dropping physical ability who need time and proper development to reach their ceiling.

Strengths

+Possesses elite arm strength capable of fitting balls into tight windows on deep out routes and back-shoulder throws, regularly making throws that most college quarterbacks simply cannot attempt.

+Demonstrates excellent pocket mobility and escapability, showing natural instincts to slide up in the pocket when pressure comes from the edges while keeping his eyes downfield.

+Displays impressive arm talent on off-platform throws, maintaining accuracy and velocity when throwing on the run or from awkward arm angles after avoiding pressure.

+Shows strong leadership qualities and poise in high-pressure situations, never appearing rattled even when Alabama trailed in crucial SEC matchups.

+Exhibits good deep ball accuracy when given time, particularly on vertical routes down the seams and fade patterns to the boundary where his arm strength creates separation.

+Demonstrates natural ability to extend plays with his legs, buying time for receivers to work open while still prioritizing throwing over scrambling.

+Shows quick release mechanics when operating from shotgun formations, getting the ball out rapidly on slants and quick game concepts.

+Displays good football IQ in pre-snap reads, frequently identifying blitzes and making appropriate protection adjustments at the line of scrimmage.

+Shows impressive velocity on intermediate throws across the formation, particularly on crossing routes and dig patterns that require threading tight windows.

+Demonstrates good size and frame to withstand hits in the pocket while maintaining throwing mechanics under pressure.

+Exhibits strong work ethic and dedication to film study, showing measurable improvement in decision-making throughout his Alabama career.

+Shows natural charisma and vocal leadership on the sidelines, earning respect from teammates despite his youth.

Weaknesses

-Struggles with accuracy on intermediate routes between 12-18 yard range, particularly on comeback routes and curl patterns where timing and ball placement are crucial.

-Shows concerning tendencies to hold the ball too long when his initial read is covered, leading to unnecessary sacks and fumbles in the pocket.

-Demonstrates inconsistent footwork in the pocket, occasionally throwing off his back foot when pressure is only perceived rather than actual.

-Exhibits poor decision-making when scrambling outside the pocket, sometimes forcing throws into coverage instead of taking available rushing yards.

-Shows limited experience operating from under center, with most of his Alabama snaps coming from shotgun and pistol formations.

-Demonstrates concerning ball security issues, with fumbles occurring too frequently when taking hits or when trying to escape pressure.

-Struggles with touch passes on shorter routes, often overthrowing running backs on checkdowns and screen passes due to his natural arm strength.

-Shows inconsistent pre-snap recognition against disguised coverages, particularly struggling to identify rotating safeties in Cover-2 and Cover-3 schemes.

NFL Comparison: Anthony Richardson

Fan voting will be available once grades are published.

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