Jets Spend Time with Alabama QB Ty Simpson Ahead of Draft

New York Jets show interest in top QB prospect as they search for long-term solution under center.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:09pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a quarterback in motion, with the player's form broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape.The Jets' deep dive into the 2026 QB class, including Ty Simpson, reflects their urgency to find a long-term solution under center.Tuscaloosa Today

According to a report from ESPN's Rich Cimini, the New York Jets have met with or plan to meet with several top quarterback prospects ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, including Alabama's Ty Simpson. The Jets spent time with Simpson in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, evaluating the projected second-round pick as they look to find a long-term answer at the position.

Why it matters

The Jets are in need of a quarterback of the future after signing Geno Smith to a short-term deal. With a weak 2026 QB class, the team is doing its due diligence on prospects like Simpson who could be available when they pick in the middle of the first round.

The details

The Jets met with Simpson on Thursday night for dinner and Friday morning for a private workout, with general manager Darren Mougey, head coach Aaron Glenn, offensive coordinator Frank Reich, and quarterbacks coach Bill Musgrave all in attendance. While some may view this as a smokescreen, Cimini reports the Jets' interest in Simpson is legitimate as they evaluate all options to find their next franchise QB.

  • On March 27, 2026, the Jets met with Simpson in Tuscaloosa for dinner.
  • On March 28, 2026, the Jets held a private workout with Simpson in Tuscaloosa.

The players

Ty Simpson

A quarterback prospect from the University of Alabama who is projected to be a second-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Darren Mougey

The general manager of the New York Jets.

Aaron Glenn

The head coach of the New York Jets.

Frank Reich

The offensive coordinator of the New York Jets.

Bill Musgrave

The quarterbacks coach of the New York Jets.

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What they’re saying

“The Jets have two first-round picks (No. 2 and No. 16), and the drama will be thick if Simpson is on the board when the Jets are on the clock.”

— Rich Cimini, ESPN Reporter

“This much is clear: The Jets are doing a deep dive into the QB class.”

— Rich Cimini, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Jets will continue to evaluate Simpson and other top quarterback prospects as they determine their strategy for the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold two first-round picks.

The takeaway

The Jets' interest in Ty Simpson suggests they are leaving no stone unturned in their search for a long-term answer at quarterback, even in a weak draft class. Their willingness to do extensive scouting on a projected second-round pick shows their commitment to finding the right signal-caller to lead the franchise.