With the NFL Draft less than a month away, ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky is getting crushed for his take about this year's quarterback class.
During an appearance on "Get Up" this Monday, Orlovsky declared that Alabama's Ty Simpson is the best quarterback available in the 2026 NFL Draft. Just about every analyst in the industry has Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza ranked ahead of Simpson. To be fair, the Heisman Trophy winner had 3,535 passing yards and 48 total touchdowns.
NFL fans came up with a theory that Orlovsky was trying to boost Simpson's draft stock because they're represented by the same agency, CAA.
Orlovsky responded to his critics by posting a picture of a sign that said: "People often forget that kindness is free." That move only sparked more outrage from football fans.
"Bro got flamed so hard for saying Ty Simpson is QB1 he had to post some poster outside of a laundromat," one person said.
"Having an NFL draft take so bad that you have to start posting like my aunt on Facebook is honestly kinda impressive," another fan replied.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 16: ESPN commentator Dan Orlovsky looks on prior to a game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Atlanta Falcons at Allegiant Stadium on December 16, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images) Ian Maule/Getty Images
Social media influencer Paige Spiranac offered her thoughts on Orlovsky's situation. She thinks it's unfair that people are accusing Orlovsky of playing the victim card.
Spiranac reminded people that it's fair to dish out constructive criticism, but people shouldn't cross the line and make vile threats.
"I hate this narrative that Dan is playing the victim after a bad take," Spiranac wrote. "Criticism over a public opinion is fair game and I'm sure he can handle that but most people don't realize the amount of vile hate, threats and abuse that is sent privately or even to family members. This sort of behavior shouldn't be normalized. We can have disagreements and heated discussions without crossing the line."
Orlovsky isn't backing off his stance.
Despite all of the backlash that Orlovsky has received, he's not letting it change his stance on Simpson. He made that clear during an appearance on "Get Up" this Wednesday.
"I know we're not comparing the players, but it's a tape vs. traits decision," Orlovsky explained. "I believe that Ty Simpson's tape is better. He doesn't have the traits that Fernando Mendoza does and you are going to, as an organization, make the determination on him not having those physical traits or starts, is that a yes or no for you? I understand if the answer is no. I don't subscribe to that."
If Simpson ends up having a better rookie year than Mendoza, we might witness a slow-burning victory lap from Orlovsky.
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