With NFL Combine week upon us, much more news will surface about the NFL and the draft prospects getting ready to partake in the event. Many believe it’s all about the physical side of the event, and it is, but a lot also goes into players’ updates that can alter draft stock. New details have emerged regarding the health of Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson as he continues to strengthen his case to be the second quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Alabama QB Ty Simpson’s Recovery Boosts 2026 Draft Prospects
Appearing on “Good Morning Football”, NFL insider Tom Pelissero provided an update on Simpson’s condition after what he described as a rocky close to the regular season.
According to Pelissero, “Simpson battled gastritis toward the tail end of the season, was weighing in the 190’s by the time they got to the Rose Bowl. I was told that he’s back up to 215, he’s going to look the part.”
Former Alabama QB Ty Simpson’s weight is back ahead of his throwing session at this week’s NFL combine, where Ohio State LB Sonny Styles will also participate — and could blow away the testing. @gmfb @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/T6H4yURXXw
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 23, 2026
By the time the Alabama Crimson Tide faced the Indiana Hoosiers in the Rose Bowl, Simpson’s weight had dropped alarmingly, which could’ve affected his play.
For a quarterback preparing to transition to the NFL, where defenders are faster, stronger, and more physically imposing, that marked a concerning dip.
The good news for Simpson and NFL evaluators is that his health has significantly improved. The regained strength not only reassures teams medically but could also positively impact his draft positioning.
Simpson is currently slotted as QB2 on the PFSN Consensus Big Board and is viewed as a top-32 overall prospect. With uncertainty behind presumed QB1 Fernando Mendoza, the race for the second quarterback spot remains fluid. A healthy Simpson re-enters that conversation with renewed juice to his stock.
It’s easy to overlook just how productive Simpson was despite dealing with illness. He finished the season ranked top-15 nationally in both passing yards (3,567) and passing touchdowns (28), while throwing just five interceptions.
His command of the offense, decision-making, and ability to protect the football kept Alabama competitive throughout the year.
Now, the focus shifts to the pre-draft process. Simpson plans to throw at the NFL Combine and will have the opportunity to meet extensively with teams. Strong interviews and on-field workouts could help him rebuild any momentum lost late in the season.
If he carries that into his pro day, his draft stock could continue trending upward in the weeks leading up to draft night.
With his health restored and his weight back to an NFL-ready level, Simpson has positioned himself to make a serious push up boards. If he performs well throughout the evaluation process, don’t be surprised if his name is firmly in the first-round conversation come April.
