PROFILE
Ty Simpson
5-Star
6’2″ 185lbs
High School: Westview
Hometown: Martin, TN
Commitment School: Alabama – Hard Commit 2/26/2021
BACKGROUND
The 2022 recruiting class has some good names, but Ty Simpson makes a case to headline this class as one of the best, not just at the QB position. Several things are going for him that help provides a glimpse of his future projection.
First, he’s the son of Jason Simpson, head coach of UT-Martin. His father was sitting next to him as Simpson selected Alabama as his commitment. The support and guidance from having a head coach as a father is something not to overlook.
Second, Simpson has an extensive baseball background. As a freshman, he was named All-West Tennessee baseball first team. He is also versatile on the diamond, playing shortstop, pitcher, third base, catcher, and outfield.
Simpson stated in an interview that he borrows concepts from Patrick Mahomes’ play style. In an interview with VolQuest, Simpson said he works on no-look passes. He wants to improve his game by extending plays and beating defenses with different arm angles.
Lastly, Simpson currently sits at 37 offers, but Clemson’s own Trevor Lawrence reached out to Simpson about committing to Clemson. The first overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft took it upon himself to recruit Simpson to be the future quarterback for the Tigers.
Tennessee was also considered a favorite to land Simpson, but coaching changes significantly impacted Simpson’s decision to back out. Tennessee had been recruiting Simpson since the eighth grade, and the departure of Chris Weinke and Jim Chaney was disappointing for Simpson. Too many issues arose with the Vols, and that ended the recruitment.
Ultimately, Simpson committed to Alabama on February 26th. He stated that Bill O’Brien made a significant impact on him and his commitment decision. Another pivotal moment was the Walk of Fame ceremony, where players such as DeVonta Smith and Mac Jones place their cleats and hand impressions in cement. Simpson now looks to be the next Alabama starting QB of the future.
SCOUTING REPORT
Simpson has solid height with adequate weight for the position. His frame will allow for additional mass, but he will need to add more weight for better balance in upper and lower body strength for the next level.
He is labeled a pro-style QB which is valid, but he is a dual-threat by definition. Simpson possesses excellent lateral quickness to evade pursuit angles in the pocket and elude tacklers when running with the ball. He shows some explosiveness when running through gaps and into the open field while maintaining good body control and balance when taking on contact.
He quickly processes the pocket, identifying defenders in pursuit with his peripheral vision navigating the pocket with excellent footwork and poise. He knows when to step up into the pocket and take subtle pocket slides to stay on platform. He is guilty of retreating the pocket and opting out of his platform at times, resulting in yards lost at the collegiate level.
The majority of the time, Simpson stays mentally tough and throws under pressure with ease, whether on or off structure. He plays aggressively, escaping and running when necessary or standing firm and taking a hit.
Simpson improvises when plays break down and has no problem beating defenders with his legs. He displays above-average speed to make big plays as a runner. He understands how to navigate through open lanes and use his blockers through multi-levels. Simpson shows enough athleticism and speed to maneuver his way around defenders and hit the perimeter for significant gains.
Accuracy is no issue for Simpson as he can hit his receiver in stride with excellent anticipation and allow for the facilitation of yards after the catch. He displays very good ability to change arm angles and throw with accuracy, whether on the run or from the pocket.
He has a big arm, showing he can throw the deep ball with excellent velocity and touch to hit his receiver with very good accuracy while in stride downfield. He drives the ball with very good power into small windows and has no issues with 20 plus yard throws while on the run.
Simpson displays very good mechanics and advanced footwork for this stage in his career. His sophomore film was more impressive than his junior film as a pocket quarterback, but his use as a runner increased his junior year, providing a glimpse of how he can beat defenses with his arm and legs.
Simpson throws from a balanced platform. He displays a quick setup and fast release with good torque through his core to drive the ball downfield. He does need to have a tighter carriage as he tends to hold the ball away from his body.
CONCLUSION
As a fantasy asset, Ty Simpson offers much more in regards to a dual-threat QB than a traditional pocket passer. He is a committed pocket QB at heart and mind, but his ability to extend plays with his legs is vastly underrated.
At the Elite 11 event in Nashville, Simpson was the top tester with a 99.39 rating. He is also said to have ran a 4.74 40 and jumped 34 inches in the vertical. As a passer, he’s as good and advanced as they come. As a runner, there is nothing but upside.
Simpson enters a great situation at Alabama under Nick Saban. He will have a year to learn behind Bryce Young before he takes the reigns. Not to mention he will be throwing to Jacorey Brooks, JoJo Earle, Agiye Hall, and Christian Leary for a couple of years. Look to Simpson as a priority Devy blue-chip prospect in Superflex Devy leagues.
