With the 2026 NFL Draft just a week away, the rumor mill is heating up, and one name keeps echoing through the halls in Arizona: Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. After a period of quiet speculation, a fresh wave of mock drafts is once again connecting the Cardinals to the talented signal-caller, suggesting this is more than just pre-draft smoke.

The connection appears stronger than ever. Multiple recent projections have Arizona selecting Simpson, either with their second-round pick or by maneuvering back into the first round to secure him. This speculation gained significant fuel this week when ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that, within league circles, Simpson has been linked to the Cardinals more than any other team.

This link makes logical sense given the Cardinals' current quarterback landscape. The room, featuring veterans Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew alongside Kedon Slovis, is arguably the least established in the NFL. With a clear need for a long-term franchise cornerstone, Arizona's interest in a high-upside prospect like Simpson is a storyline to watch closely.

So, what would the Cardinals be getting? Simpson's college resume is a mix of tantalizing potential and questions. While his size (6'1", 211 lbs) isn't prototypical and he started only 15 games at Alabama, his 2025 season was highly efficient. He completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and a mere five interceptions, showcasing a decent arm, anticipation, and accuracy. The primary critique is his performance under pressure, where his play can break down. For a team building for the future, he represents a fascinating project with starter-level tools.

As draft night approaches, all eyes will be on the Cardinals' war room. Will they make the move to secure the quarterback most closely tied to them in this year's draft chatter? The decision could define the franchise's direction for years to come.