2026 NFL Draft quarterback’s stock takes big hit

As NFL teams begin voluntary workouts, they also turn their attention to preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft. Front offices are finalizing draft boards and scheduling Top-30 visits.

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Quarterback has emerged as the most polarizing position in this year’s class. At one point, evaluators expected the 2026 group to be loaded with talent.

However, several young signal-callers chose to remain in school and capitalize on NIL opportunities, dramatically reshaping this year’s class. As a result, the 2027 quarterback group may also fall short of earlier expectations.

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Outside of Fernando Mendoza, no quarterback currently projects as a surefire first-round pick. Alabama’s Ty Simpson appears to be the closest.

Jan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson (15) passes against the Indiana Hoosiers in the first half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

However, reports on Wednesday indicated that Simpson now projects more likely as an early Day 2 selection. Earlier in the process, some evaluators viewed him as a potential top-15 pick.

This shift marks a significant hit to Simpson’s draft stock. While plenty of time remains for movement, his trajectory currently trends downward.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that Drew Allar’s stock is rising. He may not have entered first-round consideration, but he no longer projects as a late Day 3 option. This contrast creates an intriguing dynamic between the two quarterbacks.

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The primary concern with Simpson centers on his lack of experience. He has only one full season as a starter at the collegiate level.

March 25, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Quarterback Ty Simpson throws during Pro Day in the Hank Crisp Indoor Practice Facility at the University of Alabama.

That said, he made the most of that opportunity. He demonstrated the tools and poise necessary to compete at the NFL level.

Simpson participated in both the NFL Combine and Alabama’s Pro Day, where he generated continued interest from teams—though not necessarily at a first-round level.

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A team could still trade back into the first round to select him, given the financial and contractual advantages tied to first-round picks.

Feb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) greets Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson (QB17) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Simpson will continue navigating the pre-draft process, with additional visits scheduled. If he lands with a team that has an established veteran nearing retirement, he could benefit from a developmental situation.

He has frequently been linked to the Los Angeles Rams, where he could eventually become the successor to Matthew Stafford.

For now, Simpson’s stock remains one of the more compelling storylines to monitor. The question remains: could he ultimately slip out of the first round?

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