The quarterback class at the 2026 NFL Draft is considered to be rather thin. With Alabama playmaker Ty Simpson, it now has one more candidate.

NFL opportunity instead of senior season in college football.

Quarterback Ty Simpson announced in an Instagram post on Wednesday that he will be participating in the 2026 NFL Draft.

“I am grateful for every single second. I am infinitely happy to be able to realize my dreams. It’s time to get started,” said the 23-year-old.

Simpson was the starting quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide for just one season. In the 2025 college season, he completed 64.5 percent of his passes, racking up 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns with five interceptions. After an 11-4 record, he and Alabama failed to advance past the playoff quarterfinals.

Father Simpson: Candidate for first-round pick

At least according to his father, Jason Simpson, the quarterback can hope to be selected in the first round of the draft.

Of all the NFL general managers he has been in contact with, his son has been considered a first-round pick, Jason Simpson told ESPN: “No one has mentioned the second round.”

Ty Simpson is foregoing another college season to enter the NFL Draft. According to ESPN, other top colleges were also interested in signing him. In the draft, Simpson is considered one of the most promising quarterback talents alongside Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) and Dante Moore (Oregon). However, the latter two have not yet officially announced their participation in the draft.