Alabama QB Ty Simpson Reveals Close Relationship With Texas Star Arch Manning

The two star quarterbacks have helped each other prepare for games despite playing for rival SEC programs.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 11:59am

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A cubist painting depicting two football players, one in crimson and one in burnt orange, broken into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes, representing the close relationship between the two rival quarterbacks.The close friendship between Alabama's Ty Simpson and Texas' Arch Manning transcends their rivalry, as the two star quarterbacks support each other's development.Austin Today

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, a top 2026 NFL Draft prospect, detailed his close friendship and working relationship with Texas Longhorns standout Arch Manning, who is expected to be one of the top quarterbacks in the 2027 NFL Draft class. The two have known each other for years through the Manning Passing Academy and have regularly exchanged scouting reports and advice as they've navigated the challenges of being the starting QBs at their respective powerhouse programs.

Why it matters

The relationship between Simpson and Manning is noteworthy because they are two of the top young quarterbacks in college football, playing for rival SEC schools. Their willingness to help each other prepare and share insights speaks to their character and the respect they have for one another, even as they compete for the spotlight.

The details

Simpson said he and Manning have been friends for a long time, introduced by quarterback coach David Morris. The two often trade scouting reports on common opponents and debrief on how their games went each week. Despite Texas and Alabama not facing each other the last two seasons, the friends have grown closer as they've both dealt with the pressures of being 'The Man' at their programs.

  • In the 2026 season, Simpson led Alabama to an 11-4 record, throwing for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns.
  • In 2026, Manning threw for 3,163 yards and 26 touchdowns, leading Texas to a 10-3 record and a Citrus Bowl victory.
  • Manning recently announced he will return to Texas for the 2027 season, forgoing early NFL Draft eligibility.

The players

Ty Simpson

The starting quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide, a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Arch Manning

The starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, expected to be one of the top QB prospects for the 2027 NFL Draft.

David Morris

The quarterback coach who introduced Simpson and Manning.

Archie Manning

Arch Manning's grandfather, who organizes the Manning Passing Academy.

Eli Manning

Arch Manning's uncle, who helps organize the Manning Passing Academy.

Peyton Manning

Arch Manning's uncle, who helps organize the Manning Passing Academy.

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What they’re saying

“Me and Arch have been friends for a long time. It started with David Morris; he introduced us to each other and we've kept in touch ever since through recruiting and playing. It's really just a great resource to have because we debrief on how the week went and how the game went.”

— Ty Simpson, Alabama Quarterback

“We help each other. I'll say, 'Hey, I'm playing Oklahoma and you played them a few weeks ago,' so we talk about things to get ready for. This year, especially, our friendship got closer because we were going through some of the same struggles of being 'The Man' at these big programs.”

— Ty Simpson, Alabama Quarterback

What’s next

With both Simpson and Manning returning to their respective schools for the 2026 season, college football fans will be eagerly awaiting any potential matchup between the two star quarterbacks in the future.

The takeaway

The close relationship between Ty Simpson and Arch Manning, two of the top young quarterbacks in the country, demonstrates the camaraderie and mutual respect that can exist even between players at rival programs. Their willingness to help each other prepare and share insights speaks to their character and the broader spirit of sportsmanship in college football.