Ty Simpson: NFL Draft’s Biggest Mystery After Pro Day
Ty Simpson, a quarterback from Alabama, showcased his skills at the recent pro day, solidifying his status as a top prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft. Hosted at the Hank Crisp Indoor Facility, this event drew attention from all 32 NFL teams.
Impressive Pro Day Performance
During the pro day, Simpson displayed remarkable throwing accuracy. He completed 50 of 55 passes, with only two drops, highlighting his impressive footwork and leadership. Approximately 25% of his throws were deep balls, emphasizing his ability to connect on long passes. Simpson’s preparation for this session included working closely with throwing coach David Morris.
Key Stats from the Pro Day
- Warmup Throws: 16
- Total Attempts: 55
- Completed Passes: 50
- Deep Balls Emphasized: Yes
- Number of Dropped Passes: 2
Feedback and Intangibles
The feedback from scouts and officials present was generally positive. A staff member from the New York Jets praised Simpson as he exited the field. Simpson expressed his enjoyment of the day, stating, “This was something that was fun, being able to show off my arm, show off my feet.”
His targets included notable players like Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams, who is projected to be a first-round pick in 2027, and Germie Bernard, likely to be selected on the second day of the draft. Despite a few misthrows, Simpson’s leadership qualities and high football IQ have gained him respect among teams. Many analysts believe he could channel this experience into coaching post-retirement.
Concerns Over Durability
While Simpson’s performance was strong, concerns linger about his durability. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 211 pounds, he had a successful initial season but struggled in the latter half due to injuries. His lack of extensive starting experience raises questions about his readiness for the NFL, prompting some evaluators to recommend a backup role to facilitate his adjustment.
Comparative Evaluations
Many NFL analysts have drawn parallels between Simpson and Brock Purdy, citing similarities in their playing styles. Considered a valuable distributor, Simpson is seen as someone who could excel in offenses led by coaches such as Sean McVay or Kyle Shanahan, known for their emphasis on quarterback processing and decision-making.
Draft Predictions
As the draft approaches, opinions on Simpson’s projected placement vary. While many teams rate him as a second-round pick, others are more skeptical, placing him in the third round. Despite this, consensus indicates he will likely be a first-round selection. The mystery surrounding where exactly Simpson will land remains one of the NFL Draft’s key talking points as teams prepare for the big event.
