Ty Simpson: Staying at Alabama Would Have Dimmed My Legacy

Ty Simpson's Bold Declaration

Former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson has made waves in the football world with his firm stance on his future. After declaring for the NFL draft on January 7, he emphasized his decision to remain with the Crimson Tide instead of transferring to another program. He expressed, "It would tarnish my legacy to stay in college and play for another school."

Legacies Are Built, Not Shared

Simpson's career at Alabama is a testament to his dedication and ambition. The young quarterback highlighted his desire to wear the crimson jersey one last time, stating definitively, "There is no doubt in my mind that the last jersey I wanted to wear in college was the Alabama Crimson Tide jersey." This sentiment showcases his commitment to the program that gave him his start.

“I came there. I stayed there.” - Ty Simpson

Assessing Draft Prospects

When Simpson declared for the draft, he was positioned as the No. 3 draft-eligible quarterback by ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. However, following Oregon quarterback Dante Moore's decision to return to college, Simpson's stock has risen to the No. 2 spot in Kiper's rankings. This is a significant leap that underscores the competitive nature of college football and the NFL draft.

The Family Influence

Tie to his college roots runs deep in Simpson's family. His father, Jason Simpson, who coaches at UT Martin, revealed there were offers from other Power 4 schools. Reports indicated that Miami, Oregon, and Tennessee had shown interest in signing Ty Simpson should he have entered the transfer portal.

Commitment to Alabama Standards

Simpson underscores the pride he feels representing Alabama. He remarked, "The last thing I wanted to do was tarnish my legacy and go somewhere else where I didn't go out of high school and I didn't want to play." His words resonate deeply within the Alabama football community, reflecting a sentiment shared by many former players who view their time with the Crimson Tide as more than just a college experience—it's a cornerstone of their identity.

Looking Ahead to the NFL

As he prepares for the NFL draft, Simpson's stats from the 2025 season reflect his readiness for the next level. He completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,567 yards, with an impressive 28 touchdowns against only five interceptions. His leadership helped propel the No. 9 Crimson Tide to an 11-4 record, including a quarterfinal appearance in the College Football Playoff.

Seminal Moments and Looking Forward

Simpson's legacy at Alabama is not merely defined by his performances on the field, but also by the values he embodies. He spoke passionately about the importance of this legacy for his future children, sharing, "It means a lot to me to be able to show my kids when they're older to come back and say their dad played here and was a captain."

Conclusion

As the NFL draft approaches, Ty Simpson stands firm in his belief that staying at Alabama was the right choice. His journey from the college ranks to professional football serves as an inspiration for many young athletes. In a world where the allure of transferring is strong, Simpson reiterates his commitment to his legacy, proving that sometimes, the heart of a champion champions is deeply rooted in integrity and loyalty.

References

For more details on Ty Simpson's declaration, check out the full story on ESPN.