The Alabama Crimson Tide football program is no stranger to high-profile quarterback competitions. With a history of producing NFL-ready talent at the position, Alabama’s quarterback room is always filled with some of the top high school recruits in the nation. Most recently, the spotlight has shifted toward Ty Simpson, who is poised to take over for Jalen Milroe as the team’s starting quarterback. As Alabama prepares for yet another quarterback transition, fans are eager to know what Simpson brings to the table and how this move could shape the future of the Crimson Tide offense.
Jalen Milroe’s tenure at Alabama, while brief, showcased his dynamic skill set and athletic potential. Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback, was known for his ability to make plays with his legs while also possessing a strong arm that could stretch defenses vertically. During his time as the starter, Milroe had moments of brilliance but also struggled with consistency in key areas, particularly in the passing game.
Milroe stepped into the starting role after the departure of Bryce Young, Alabama’s Heisman-winning quarterback who entered the NFL draft. With a high bar set by his predecessor, Milroe faced immense pressure to maintain Alabama’s standard of excellence. While he impressed at times with his athleticism, his decision-making and ability to read defenses were still a work in progress. As Alabama continued its quest for national championships, head coach Nick Saban and his staff realized that a change might be necessary to take the offense to the next level.
Enter Ty Simpson, a highly touted recruit from the class of 2022. Simpson was a five-star prospect coming out of Westview High School in Martin, Tennessee, and was regarded as one of the most talented quarterbacks in his class. He was a key target for several powerhouse programs before ultimately committing to Alabama, drawn by the opportunity to develop under Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide coaching staff.
Standing at 6’2″ and weighing around 200 pounds, Simpson possesses a prototypical quarterback build with the athleticism to make plays outside of the pocket. His skill set is balanced, offering a strong arm, solid accuracy, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Unlike Milroe, who relied heavily on his mobility, Simpson is more of a traditional pocket passer, though he is certainly capable of using his legs when needed.
One of the most important things Ty Simpson brings to the Alabama offense is his football IQ and ability to manage the game from the pocket. He has drawn comparisons to previous Alabama quarterbacks like Mac Jones, who excelled in processing defenses and making quick, accurate throws. Simpson’s ability to go through his progressions and deliver the ball on time will be crucial in Alabama’s pro-style offense, which relies on precise timing and execution.
Simpson’s arm strength is another significant asset. He has the ability to make all the throws, from short timing routes to deep passes down the sideline. This versatility will be especially important given Alabama’s talented receiving corps, which features playmakers like Jermaine Burton, Isaiah Bond, and other emerging stars. With Simpson under center, Alabama’s offense will likely focus more on the passing game, taking advantage of his ability to stretch the field and keep defenses off balance.
While Simpson is primarily a pocket passer, his athleticism shouldn’t be overlooked. He’s shown the ability to escape pressure and make plays on the run, though he is more likely to extend plays with his arm rather than relying on his legs. This balance between passing and mobility makes him a well-rounded quarterback, capable of adapting to different situations on the field.
Stepping into the starting quarterback role at Alabama comes with immense pressure and expectations. The Crimson Tide is not just one of the most successful college football programs in history, but it is also in constant contention for national championships. For Ty Simpson, the challenge will be maintaining the high standard set by his predecessors while also growing into the leader Alabama needs.
One of the key areas Simpson will need to develop is his ability to handle pressure in high-stakes games. As a young quarterback, Simpson has yet to face the elite defenses of the SEC in a full-time starting role. The speed and physicality of the conference will test his decision-making and poise. How he handles adversity—whether it’s a tough road game at LSU or a showdown against rival Auburn—will determine his long-term success.
Another challenge will be establishing chemistry with Alabama’s offensive weapons. With a talented group of receivers and a deep stable of running backs, Simpson has all the tools at his disposal to succeed. However, developing the trust and timing with these players will be essential, especially in a conference known for its tight defensive coverage.
With Simpson at the helm, Alabama’s offense is likely to shift toward a more balanced attack, relying on both the passing game and a strong running game. While Jalen Milroe’s dual-threat ability brought an extra layer of unpredictability, Simpson’s strengths lie in his ability to dissect defenses and spread the ball efficiently. This could mean a return to the more traditional style of Alabama football, which focuses on methodical drives, controlling the tempo, and making explosive plays when opportunities arise.
Additionally, Simpson’s leadership on and off the field will play a crucial role in Alabama’s success. As a young quarterback, he’ll need to earn the respect of his teammates and become the vocal leader that drives the offense. His development in this area will be closely watched, as the quarterback position at Alabama requires not only skill but also the ability to command the locker room.
Ty Simpson’s rise to the starting quarterback role at Alabama marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Crimson Tide. While Jalen Milroe brought excitement and athleticism to the position, Simpson’s skill set offers a different dimension—one built on precision passing, strong decision-making, and leadership from the pocket. As Alabama continues to compete for SEC and national titles, Simpson’s performance will be a key factor in determining the team’s success.
For Alabama fans, the future looks bright with Simpson under center. If he can live up to the hype and adapt to the rigors of SEC football, the Crimson Tide could be on the verge of another successful era with a new quarterback leading the charge. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Ty Simpson as he aims to solidify his place in Alabama’s storied quarterback legacy.