Alabama's Ty Simpson, the 2026 NFL draft's QB2, faces intense scrutiny despite 64.5% completion rate and 3,567 passing yards in just 15 starts. His limited college experience (only 15 starts in four seasons) contrasts sharply with the traditional quarterback evaluation model championed by Bill Parcells, which requires at least 30 starts. Simpson's 2025 season included statement wins over Georgia, Vanderbilt, Missouri, and Tennessee, but a stretch of four interceptions in seven games raised questions.

He'll be the 10th quarterback with 20+ starts selected in the first round since 2006, yet the track record of similar players has been underwhelming. Simpson argues his NFL-ready tape proves his readiness, citing learning from Bryce Young and playing against elite talent on scout team. However, NFL executives remain divided on whether sample size matters more than performance, with some evaluators now considering the 25-start threshold.

His draft profile hinges on convincing teams his limited starts don't outweigh his production.