simpson

2026 NFL Draft Coverage: Ty Simpson

Ty Simpson | Alabama | 6’2”, 208 lbs | Age 22

Ty Simpson enters the NFL as a developmental quarterback prospect after being selected with the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams.

COLLEGE PRODUCTION

Prior to 2025, Simpson did not see much meaningful game action, mostly playing mop-up or relief duties. 

In his 2025 season, his first as Alabama’s starter, Simpson completed 305-of-473 passes (64.5%) for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions across 15 games. He added 93 rushing yards and 2 scores on the ground, but does not profile as a dual-threat for the pros. 

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FILM

Simpson operates with excellent rhythm and shows the ability to throw with anticipation, particularly on intermediate routes over the middle. He displays a high football IQ, comfortable navigating complex protections and identifying blitzers pre-snap. While not a dynamic run-threat, he is athletic enough to extend plays and maneuver the pocket to create passing lanes. Despite his strong start to the 2025 season, Simpson’s play toward the end of the season revealed developmental hurdles that NFL coaching will need to address. He displayed a tendency to hold the ball too long, leading to an 18.3% pressure-to-sack rate, which resulted in him taking unnecessary hits rather than utilizing his check-downs or throwing the ball away, and led to overall decreased efficiency. Additionally, his deep-ball accuracy remained inconsistent, and he will need to improve his ability to scan the entire field when his primary progression is taken away by sophisticated zone coverages.

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ATHLETIC TESTING

Simpson did not participate in athletic testing at the NFL Combine or his Pro Day.

At 6’2″ and 208 lbs, Simpson possesses adequate size for the position. He shows good functional athleticism and enough arm talent to make all the necessary NFL throws, though he is best viewed as a rhythm-based passer rather than an elite physical specimen.

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DRAFT ANALYSIS

  • Rapid Reaction to Draft Capital: Excellent (1st Round, 13th Pick)
  • Rapid Reaction to Landing Spot: Elite (Los Angeles Rams)

While shocking and perhaps disappointing for Rams fans, this landing spot provides Simpson with just about the best opportunity he could have in the NFL. By sitting behind the reigning league MVP, Matthew Stafford, and learning under head coach Sean McVay—one of the game’s premier offensive minds—Simpson will have the necessary time to refine his game without the immediate pressure of starting. The Rams’ front office demonstrated a long-term commitment to his potential by using a premium first-round pick on him, signaling they view him as the heir apparent to their quarterback room whenever Stafford decides he is ready to move on.

FANTASY INSIGHTS

Simpson is currently a high-upside stash in dynasty superflex leagues. While his immediate impact will be minimal, his premium draft capital and landing spot in an elite offensive system create a clear pathway to long-term value. Managers should treat him as a long-term project whose stock is tied to the timeline of Stafford’s future in Los Angeles; he is a perfect target for rebuilding teams looking to secure their quarterback of the future.

Similar to the approach of Michael Penix in 2024, Simpson should not be drafted before the late 1st or early 2nd round of Superflex rookie drafts due to developmental questions and a lack of a proven track record.

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