Ty Simpson Challenges Fernando Mendoza's QB1 Status Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft is set to begin on April 23, with the Las Vegas Raiders holding the first overall pick. While many anticipate the Raiders selecting Fernando Mendoza, the standout quarterback from Indiana, former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky posits that Ty Simpson from Alabama is actually the top prospect in this class. Orlovsky made his case on ESPN’s "Get Up", asserting, "I think Ty Simpson is the best quarterback in this class." He highlighted Simpson's impressive performance during his first year as a starter, where he completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns with only five interceptions. In comparison, Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner, completed 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns during Indiana's championship season. Key arguments for Simpson include: Carrying the Team: Orlovsky emphasized that Simpson had to do more to elevate his team in critical moments. NFL Skills: He believes Simpson's skills translate better to the NFL, especially in high-pressure situations. Consistency: Simpson demonstrates more consistency under duress compared to Mendoza, who occasionally resorts to running instead of making throws. While Orlovsky acknowledged Mendoza's strengths, he maintained that Simpson possesses a stronger NFL arm and is more suited for the demands of professional play. He argued that Simpson's lack of college experience (15 starts vs. Mendoza's 34) is currently holding back his draft stock but sees potential for Simpson to climb higher if he had more game time. According to former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum, some teams actually favor Simpson over Mendoza on their draft boards, indicating that the decision may not be as straightforward as presumed. The Raiders' preference will ultimately dictate the outcome, as new head coach Klint Kubiak expressed enthusiasm for Mendoza during the NFL combine. As the draft approaches, Simpson remains a focal point of intrigue, with multiple teams potentially vying for his talents. The consensus among CBS Sports' mock drafts currently favors Mendoza as the first overall pick, but Simpson's future remains uncertain, making him a key player to watch on draft day.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-03-24