As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, few prospects are generating more varied discussion than Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. Next week, the speculation could turn into reality as we get a clearer picture of his professional destination.
The evaluations on Simpson are a true mixed bag. While some analysts, like ESPN's Dan Orlovsky, boldly rank him as the top quarterback in the class, others see him as a Day 1 or Day 2 wild card. This divergence of opinion makes his draft journey one of the most intriguing storylines to follow.
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, one team has been consistently linked to Simpson in league conversations: the Arizona Cardinals. This connection is logical, as Arizona faces significant uncertainty under center following the release of Kyler Murray, leaving Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew as the primary options.
For the Cardinals, the decision is complex. While they have a clear need, the 2027 quarterback class is projected to be stronger, potentially making patience a virtue. Furthermore, with GM Monti Ossenfort potentially on the hot seat, the pressure to make a franchise-altering pick is immense.
It seems unlikely Arizona would use the No. 3 overall pick on Simpson. A more plausible scenario involves the Cardinals, who are reportedly open to trading back from their top-seven slot, targeting him later in the first round or even moving up from their early second-round spot at No. 34.
However, Arizona isn't the only team that could be calling Simpson's name. The Pittsburgh Steelers, picking at No. 21, are in perpetual search of a long-term quarterback answer. The New York Jets, armed with the No. 2 and No. 16 picks, also lack a defined future at the position and select just ahead of Arizona in the second round at No. 33.
While a seismic leap into the top two picks seems improbable for Simpson, the late first and early second rounds are shaping up to be a fascinating battleground for his services. Where he lands will be a defining moment for both the player and the franchise that bets on his polarizing potential.