Ty Simpson flirtation begins with exclusive workout for Jets brass

One of the worst-kept secrets in pro sports is the New York Jets' need for a franchise quarterback. They solved their problem in the short-term, bringing in Geno Smith as their bridge for 2026, but everybody knows he isn't the future in New York.

With an eye on the 2026 NFL Draft, one quarterback prospect sticks out. Alabama's Ty Simpson, widely regarded as QB2 in the incoming class (or QB1 if you're Dan Orlovsky), could be a target for the Jets with any of their top draft picks in April.

The evaluation process is starting to get underway, and Jets brass will get a good look at Simpson on Friday, when he'll hold a private workout for New York. ESPN's Field Yates was first to report on the news.

But the question remains if Simpson is the right fit for the Jets, and if they should consider spending the 16th, 33rd, or 44th pick on the Crimson Tide standout.

Are the Jets a good match for Ty Simpson?

Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo believes the Jets should absolutely be in the Simpson business, and thinks he's in play with the No. 16 overall pick.

"Could the Jets consider Simpson at No. 16 overall? Absolutely. They traded for Geno Smith to play quarterback this season. Either the Jets will be patient enough to wait until a presumably better quarterback class in 2027, or they'll identify Simpson as worthy of being Smith's successor."

Justin Melo

Do the Jets need a long-term plan at quarterback? Without a doubt. Do they need to get one as soon as humanly possible? No, they don't. Simpson isn't the can't-miss prospect that you use the No. 2 pick on.

He's a project and a player that needs reps and time before he can be dropped under center. The Jets in 2026 need to use their top draft picks on players who can help them win right away. Aaron Glenn's job depends on it.

With Smith projected as the starter this season, how many games will Simpson end up playing? If he does get plopped into the lineup midseason, it means the Jets are on the same projectory as they were in 2025, and Frank Reich is likely serving as interim head coach. Is that any environment to develop a quarterback like Simpson?

Folks need to remember the Jets have three first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft in a class that's supposed to have several top quarterback prospects. Even if they don't find themselves picking high enough to get one of those youngsters, they can trade their capital to move up and select one.

Let's find out if the Jets have the right infrastructure and coach in place this season before there's any discussion surrounding drafting a rookie quarterback.