It is starting to get interesting regarding potential first-round quarterback prospects. Ty Simpson’s rise up draft boards has created a split among evaluators, and not everyone is focused on the same traits. While some still question parts of his profile, others believe those concerns are being overblown.
Why Louis Riddick Believes Seeing Ty Simpson Live Will Change Everything
During a segment on ESPN, Louis Riddick explained why he’s higher on Simpson than many others in the draft community.
“I think it’s one of those people who, again, once you see him throw in person,” Riddick said. “I think then you’re gonna really get a good feel for just what kind of horsepower this young man possesses in that right arm.”
“We know he’s got it mentally. … I’m a big believer in him.”
—@LRiddickESPN on Ty Simpson as the No. 2 QB prospect in the draft 👀 pic.twitter.com/S59aC60aOl
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) March 23, 2026
He pointed to a disconnect between how Simpson is viewed on paper and what shows up live.
“We know he’s got it mentally,” Riddick added. “I think it’s the physical attributes that people are gonna want to see up close and personal. I’m a big believer in him… I think he’s gonna do nothing but help himself.”
Questions about Simpson have centered on whether his physical tools match top-tier expectations. Riddick’s stance suggests those concerns may not hold up once teams get a closer look.
How Production and Decision-Making Support Simpson’s Draft Momentum
Simpson’s 2025 season supports the optimism. In his first year as Alabama’s full-time starter, he threw for 3,567 yards with 28 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. He added 2 rushing scores and finished with an 85.4 PFSN CFB QB Impact Grade.
In his first year as Alabama’s full-time starter, he threw for 3,567 yards with 28 touchdowns and five interceptions. He added two rushing scores and finished with an 85.4 PFSN College QB Impact grade.
Those numbers highlight efficiency and control. The low interception total stands out, especially for a quarterback with limited starting experience. Simpson made just 15 career starts, which remains part of the evaluation.
At the same time, his ability to process defenses and protect the football has drawn consistent praise. That aligns with what other analysts are seeing.
Riddick’s ESPN colleague Dan Orlovsky recently went further, calling Simpson the best quarterback in the 2026 draft class and pointing to how he handles pressure moments compared to other prospects.
The argument centers on how a quarterback responds when plays break down and decisions need to happen quickly.
BE AN NFL GM: PFSN’s Ultimate GM Simulator
The gap between him and consensus top prospect Fernando Mendoza still shows up on most boards. Mendoza sits near the top of PFSN’s rankings, while Simpson is outside the top tier overall.
Riddick’s comments point to a player whose evaluation could shift quickly in the coming weeks. With workouts, private sessions, and interviews still ahead, Simpson is gaining momentum as a potential first-round pick.
