Ty Simpson has recently been rising up mock draft boards, but he still remains massively underrated.
At the midway point of last season, Simpson was in competition with Fernando Mendoza for the title of best quarterback in the draft class. At one point, the Alabama star was even projected to be the No. 1 overall pick by some draft analysts.
Simpson was a Heisman candidate and the favorite throughout the first 11 weeks of the season. However, Alabama’s 23-21 loss to the Oklahoma Sooners marked the beginning of a downturn. Turnover issues followed, ultimately keeping him from being named a finalist.
Ty Simpson’s Struggles
The biggest reason for Simpson’s decline was the number of injuries he sustained. As they piled up, his performance suffered, and without support from Alabama’s run game, his struggles became even more noticeable.
Without a reliable run game, Simpson began forcing plays and trying to carry the offense. Over time, the physical toll became too much to overcome for him which ultimately led to him being benched during the Rose Bowl against Indiana.
At the next level, Simpson should benefit from a more balanced offensive system. A stronger run game will help take pressure off his shoulders and allow him to play more efficiently.
Potential Landing Spots for Simpson
Ty Simpson is currently projected as a late first-round to early second-round pick.
The clock for Simpson starts at pick No. 6, held by the Cleveland Browns. While the Browns do have Pro Bowl quarterback Shedeur Sanders on the roster, Todd Monken and his new coaching staff could still be in the market for another QB option, especially given Sanders’ inconsistency during his rookie year.
If Cleveland passes at six, they also hold the 24th pick from last year’s trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, Simpson may not be available by that point.
Another potential landing spot is the Los Angeles Rams, who have the 13th pick. After a strong offseason, the team appears to have addressed most of its needs. With this pick acquired from the Atlanta Falcons, the Rams could target their quarterback of the future to develop behind Matthew Stafford.
This situation would allow Simpson to develop behind Stafford while learning from head coach Sean McVay. It’s an ideal environment for him to reach his full potential before taking over as a starter.
The New York Jets are another frequently discussed landing spot. During the combine, Simpson spoke highly of the organization and its coaching staff, even referencing the team’s famous “J-E-T-S JETS! JETS! JETS!” chant.
In New York, Simpson could sit behind veteran Geno Smith, who started his career as a Jet and understands the challenges of playing in a demanding media market as a young quarterback. The Jets also offer a solid offensive line and dynamic playmakers like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are another favorite to land Simpson as they own the 21st pick in the NFL Draft and currently only have two quarterbacks on the roster in Mason Rudolph and Will Howard. With Mike McCarthy taking over for Mike Tomlin he could explore his quarterback options and Simpson could be the answer that he is searching for.
Pittsburgh could offer immediate playing time, along with a dominant defense that would ease the pressure on a rookie quarterback. That environment can help Simpson develop throughout his first season.
What Does Simpson Bring to the Table?
Simpson is a raw prospect who will need a couple of years of development at the next level. However, if a team can unlock his potential, the payoff would be significant. He has the mindset teams dream of — the ability to shake off mistakes and stay focused on winning.
The gunslinger is an prospect who no doubt has flaws in his game. With the right coaching staff, his name could strike fear into defensive coordinators’ minds for years to come.
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