Ty Simpson Contemplates Future After Tough Playoff Loss
Ty Simpson is set to decide about his future in the next few weeks, but the Alabama quarterback wasn’t quite ready to commit right after the Crimson Tide’s 38-3 defeat against Indiana in the College Football Playoff.
When asked if he had plans for 2026, Simpson simply replied, “No, not at all.” His focus seemed to be more on the present moment as he expressed concern about his last moments with the seniors and teammates who won’t be returning next year.
“I’m eager to get back to work,” he mentioned. During the game, Simpson completed 12 out of 16 passes for only 67 yards and had to leave the field in the third quarter after injuring his ribs while trying to secure a first down.
Following Simpson’s exit, Austin Mack stepped in and managed to complete 11 of 16 passes for 103 yards, contributing to the game. Simpson acknowledged that he believes Mack has the potential to help secure wins if he stays healthy. He reflected on a particular drive where he felt a shift in momentum after getting hit, noting, “The competitor in me wanted to ensure I got the first down. Maybe I should’ve just gone down because getting more than a first down wasn’t worth the injury.”
Simpson had spent three years as Alabama’s backup before taking the starting role in 2025, leading the team to a 10-2 record with impressive stats—3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. This performance helped propel Alabama into the College Football Playoff.
Even after a disappointing loss to the Hoosiers, it appears that Simpson could be a first-round pick in April’s NFL Draft, alongside potential prospects like Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Oregon’s Dante Moore.
This makes him a player to watch for both the Jets and Giants. The Jets are in search of a quarterback, and with the Raiders holding the top pick heading into Week 18, there’s a chance Mendoza might be off the board when it’s their turn. The Giants, despite having Jackson Dart in their ranks, may still be impacted by Simpson’s status. If his draft positioning improves, they might reevaluate their options if they’re considering trades or other quarterback moves.
