Ty Simpson helped push himself into first-round consideration after a solid 2025 campaign with the Alabama Crimson Tide. While several quarterback-needy teams are expected to target him early in the April draft, not everyone is sold on the hype.
Former New York Jets scout Daniel Kelly, in his analysis on X on Saturday, raised concerns about using a high draft pick to select Simpson.
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Kelly drew a comparison between Simpson and former No. 2 pick Zach Wilson. Wilson is widely seen as a bust after a disappointing three-year stint with the Jets, during which he posted a 12–21 record and struggled with consistency before being traded to the Denver Broncos.
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Kelly outlined several similarities between Simpson and Wilson, focusing on their scouting profiles, college development and potential risks. He noted that he labeled Wilson a “surefire bust” before the Jets selected him in the first round of the 2021 draft, and warned that Simpson could follow a similar path.
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“What are the similarities? Reckless with the football. Best out of structure and off-platform. Hold the ball too long,” Kelly said. “What pre-draft grade do I have on Simpson? 3rd round. Exact same grade as I gave Wilson!
“‘Don’t do it in the first or second round.’ That’s what I would say if I was still sitting in that building, and I was asked what my opinion is on Ty Simpson.”
While many of Kelly’s comparisons focus on playstyle, there are also broader concerns surrounding Simpson that are similar to the pre-draft narrative of Wilson, especially regarding experience and consistency.
The Alabama quarterback started just 15 games in his college career, all during the 2025 season. While he showed promise early, his form dipped down the stretch, with his completion rate sliding from 66.9% in his first nine games to 60.5% in his final six.
Top-3 potential landing spots for Ty Simpson in the draft
1) Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins may not be in the market for a quarterback early after parting ways with Tua Tagovailoa and signing Malik Willis, but they shouldn’t be ruled out entirely.
If Ty Simpson slips into the second round, Miami could take a chance on his upside. Adding him would provide depth and also set up a potential competition with Willis for the future of the franchise.
2) Pittsburgh Steelers
Even if Aaron Rodgers returns in 2026, the Steelers still need to think long-term at quarterback. At 42, Rodgers is only a short-term answer. That’s where Ty Simpson comes in. Pittsburgh could draft him as a developmental prospect, allowing him to sit and learn behind one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
For Simpson, landing with a well-run, stable franchise like the Steelers could be the perfect situation to maximize his potential.
3) Arizona Cardinals
There’s still plenty of uncertainty in Arizona after the team moved on from Kyler Murray. With Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew leading the quarterback room, the Cardinals remain without a clear long-term answer.
That could put Ty Simpson on their radar. While selecting him at No. 4 might be a reach, Arizona has the flexibility to trade down, pick up extra assets and still land its quarterback of the future.
Edited by Ribin Peter
