Ty Simpson 2026 NFL Draft tracker live updates on Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The No. 1 pick of the NFL Draft is set with Fernando Mendoza headed to the Las Vegas Raiders. But it could be a roller-coaster ride for quarterbacks after the start.
Ty Simpson is expected to be the second signal-caller off the board. Whether that will come in the first round or not remains to be seen. If Mendoza is the lone QB to go in the first 32 picks, it will be the third time in the last 20 years with only one going into Day 2.
The jury is still out on where Simpson will land. Alabama's one-year starter led his team to a College Football Playoff appearance last year, but his tape is inconsistent. Simpson also dealt with broken ribs following the postseason Rose Bowl matchup with Indiana. For teams debating whether to take a risk on him with such a high pick will come up during the broadcast.
Simpson is pegged as a "Day 2 developmental quarterback" with the right intangibles to become an NFL starter. He threw for 3,567 yards with 28 touchdowns and five interceptions last year.
What if Ty Simpson doesn't get drafted tonight?Love this guy. @ty_simpson06@UpAndAdamsShowpic.twitter.com/whbMRDX9ZC
The 2026 NFL draft kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday in Pittsburgh (ESPN, ABC and NFL Network-- available on Fubo), The Las Vegas Raiders will likely select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick.
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