Jon Gruden Hypes Up Ty Simpson Ahead of NFL Draft

Former Raiders coach labels Alabama QB the 'real deal' despite concerns over limited experience.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:55pm

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Former Las Vegas Raiders head coach Jon Gruden has voiced his support for Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, labeling him the 'real deal' despite concerns over his limited collegiate experience. Gruden praised Simpson's arm strength and pocket mobility, though evaluators have raised questions about his ability to withstand the rigors of a 17-game professional schedule due to his 6-foot-1, 211-pound frame. Simpson is projected as a potential second-round pick, with the Arizona Cardinals reportedly showing strong interest.

Why it matters

The debate over Simpson versus Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, the presumptive top overall pick, highlights the tradeoffs NFL teams must weigh between high-ceiling talent and proven production. Gruden's endorsement of Simpson could sway some teams to take a chance on the Alabama quarterback's upside, even with his limited collegiate experience.

The details

Simpson led Alabama to an 11-4 record and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2025, showcasing his live arm and high-end pocket mobility. However, he took a significant number of hits during the Southeastern Conference schedule, and his mechanics deteriorated late in the season as a result. Evaluators have also noted Simpson's lack of live game experience, as he logged just 15 career starts in college.

  • In 2025, Simpson was the full-time starter for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
  • On April 6, 2026, Jon Gruden voiced his support for Simpson on his Barstool platform.

The players

Jon Gruden

A former head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders who has praised Ty Simpson's potential as an NFL quarterback.

Ty Simpson

The Alabama quarterback who is projected as a potential second-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, despite concerns over his limited collegiate experience.

Fernando Mendoza

The Indiana quarterback who is expected to be the top overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after leading his team to an undefeated regular season and a national title.

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What they’re saying

“'When you watch Ty Simpson play when he's healthy, he's the real deal, man.'”

— Jon Gruden, Former Las Vegas Raiders Head Coach

What’s next

NFL front offices will continue to debate the merits of Ty Simpson versus Fernando Mendoza in the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft, with the Arizona Cardinals reportedly showing strong interest in potentially selecting Simpson with the 34th overall pick.

The takeaway

Gruden's endorsement of Ty Simpson highlights the difficult decisions NFL teams face in balancing high-ceiling talent with proven production. Simpson's physical gifts and upside could entice teams to take a chance on him, even with his limited collegiate experience, while Mendoza's proven track record may make him the safer choice for teams seeking a high floor at the quarterback position.