Ty Simpson made a major declaration on Friday. The Alabama quarterback asserted his status as a “franchise quarterback” during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine media day.
Simpson has 15 career starts and one full CFB season under his belt. He addressed questions regarding his readiness in Indianapolis. The Alabama QB is drawing heavy interest from the likes of the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets, with the latter formally meeting with Simpson as they search for a long-term option.
“First off, I think I’m ready. I’m a franchise quarterback,” Simpson said on Friday.
#Alabama QB Ty Simpson: “I’m ready. I’m a franchise quarterback” pic.twitter.com/bTJcgTu1xf
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) February 27, 2026
To back up his claim, Simpson pointed to the infrastructure in Alabama. He cited practicing against future NFL draft picks like Will Anderson and Dallas Turner, as well as operating in an NFL-style system under coordinators like Ryan Grubb, as proof of his preparation. Reportedly, the Browns are heavily evaluating their QB room under Todd Monken and have identified Simpson as a potential target.
Simpson’s claim sparked reactions from fans across social media.
“Only white QBs can say this,” one reacted on X.
Only white QBs can say this 😂😂😂😂😂
— i got sum to say (@gte_stacca) February 27, 2026
“Nope to cocky of a answer for me,” another reacted.
Nope to cocky of a answer for me https://t.co/N6fpdnoiD5
— Dalvinthetruth (@dalvinthetruth) February 27, 2026
“Hold on there buster, you don’t decide whether you’re a franchise quarterback,” another wrote.
Hold on there buster, you don't decide whether you're a franchise quarterback https://t.co/YEQZLWML0l
— Tanatswa Hokonya (@a2aptan) February 27, 2026
“This screams “Josh Rosen” to me. I can’t wait till he says “I’ve got a chip on my shoulder. I’m circling 31 teams on mental hit list” before he’s out of the league in 5 years,” one reacted.
“Bro don’t even know what he stepping into,” one wrote.
“He knows we seen the game tape right? Dude is a perennial backup,” another wrote.
Simpson is viewed as a potential top-20 selection and likely the second quarterback off the board, according to analysts.
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Ty Simpson Opens Up On NFL Draft Uncertainty And Injuries
Ty Simpson, who faced physical obstacles during his final college season, discussed the mental toll of the NFL draft process during an interview with NBC.
Simpson, whose production slowed after a back injury and medication side effects caused his weight to drop to 195 pounds, described the pre-draft cycle as a difficult transition. He is not happy with the lack of a set schedule and the loss of team camaraderie compared to the structured environment at Alabama.
“Asking me about the process and I was like it’s super super cool, it’s a blessing, but it also really sucks,” he said. “Because I don’t know where I’m going to live, I don’t know what team I’m going to be on”.
By staying at Alabama, Simpson prioritized his legacy over transfer opportunities. He has since recovered to 215 pounds and remains focused on joining one of the 32 NFL franchises while maintaining relationships with peers like Arch Manning.
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