Ty Simpson is gaining significant attention in the 2026 NFL Draft discussions, largely influenced by analysts such as Dan Orlovsky. The former NFL quarterback has sparked conversation by labeling Simpson as the top quarterback in the class, even surpassing Fernando Mendoza, who is widely regarded as the first overall pick on all draft boards. “When we evaluate the performances of these two quarterbacks, we need to ask who had to do more to lead their team. For me, it”s Ty Simpson, and the gap between them is substantial,” Orlovsky stated, surprising many in the football community.
Following Orlovsky”s comments, Ty Simpson”s draft stock has risen notably across various mock drafts. In his time at Alabama, Simpson amassed 3,567 passing yards, threw 28 touchdowns, and only five interceptions, achieving an impressive 145.2 passer rating, leading the SEC. His remarkable efficiency, particularly a sub-1% interception rate, has certainly caught the attention of NFL scouts.
However, not all analysts are convinced by the hype surrounding Simpson. On ESPN, veteran draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. expressed skepticism regarding Simpson”s rising status while discussing his potential future with various NFL teams. “The Jets need to evaluate Ty Simpson. The Steelers need to assess him as well… and certainly, Arizona is interested in possibly trading back to get him,” Kiper remarked. Field Yates added that the Cleveland Browns should also consider Simpson, but Kiper disagreed sharply.
“The Browns don”t need to concern themselves with Ty Simpson… they already have a better quarterback in Shedeur Sanders. Don”t even go there,” Kiper responded firmly. This statement serves a dual purpose: it establishes Kiper”s current view of Simpson as a player who falls short of elite status and reinforces his long-standing belief in Sanders, whom he has consistently supported even during Sanders” challenging moments in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Kiper has been a vocal advocate for Shedeur Sanders for years, praising his “unflappable mindset” and exceptional ball placement. He has consistently argued that Sanders embodies all the qualities desired in an NFL quarterback. His belief in Sanders remained steadfast even after the quarterback slipped to the fifth round, a fall Kiper called “nonsensical.” Currently, despite a rookie season where Sanders ended up statistically among the lower ranks with 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, ten interceptions, and a passer rating of 68.1, Kiper”s opinion has not wavered.
When Kiper asserts that Shedeur Sanders outshines Ty Simpson, it reflects less on dismissing Simpson and more on affirming his confidence in Sanders” abilities. However, comparing the two directly is complex, as Simpson is still a draft prospect while Sanders has completed a rookie season and is now aiming for a starting role. Thus, evaluating them side by side involves contrasting players at different stages of their careers, akin to comparing apples to oranges.
