ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit makes strong statement about Alabama QB Ty Simpson that will have fans in Tuscaloosa worried
Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson is one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy later this year.
Entering the 2025 season, it was unclear whether the quarterback position would be a strength or weakness for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
It wasn’t that people didn’t believe in Ty Simpson, a former five-star recruit who sat behind Jalen Milroe and Bryce Young for three seasons — it’s that he was a complete unknown when it came to how he’d perform on Saturdays in the SEC.
Simpson, though, has been a revelation for the Crimson Tide this season. The Tennessee native has passed for 2,461 yards and 21 touchdowns, while throwing only one interception in nine games. Simpson has also rushed for two touchdowns.
Most importantly, Simpson has guided Alabama to an 8-1 record, putting the program in a prime position to land one of the top seeds in the 12-team College Football Playoff bracket.
ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit leaves no doubt on how he feels about Alabama Crimson Tide QB Ty Simpson
Once the 2025 season ends, Simpson will have a difficult decision — enter the NFL draft or return to Alabama for one more season.
I don’t think that decision is at the front of Simpson’s mind right now, so it’s not fair to speculate on what he’ll decide.
ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, however, already believes that Simpson will be the best quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft (if he declares).
“I would say Ty Simpson,” said Herbstreit on Monday during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. “He’s not sexy. He’s not going to go to the combine (and wow people). He’s not going to be a, ‘Look at this guy.’ But he seems to be a guy that has an ability to read, recognize coverage, process, [and] get the ball out. He can move around just enough to be able to be dangerous, to be able to keep plays alive.”
I’m sure that comment from Herbstreit has fans in Tuscaloosa (whether they admit it or not) a little nervous about what Simpson will decide to do after the season. And that’s certainly understandable — Simpson is an elite talent, and he’s only going to continue to get better. Every Alabama fan is certainly hoping to see him suit up for the Crimson Tide in 2026.
I won’t be surprised if Simpson stays in Tuscaloosa for one more season, but there will be plenty of NFL teams with a pick near the top of the first round hoping that he decides to turn pro.
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