The anticipation around the 2026 NFL Draft’s top quarterback prospects just got a jolt. While many analysts initially crowned Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza as the undisputed No. 1 overall pick, a prominent voice from ESPN has offered a surprising counterpoint. Former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky boldly declared Alabama’s Ty Simpson as the superior talent, igniting a significant debate across the league. This shift in perception holds particular relevance for the Cleveland Browns, who are actively evaluating their quarterback strategy and have already hosted Simpson for a top-30 pre-draft visit, signaling their serious interest in the signal-caller.
The Controversial QB1 Ranking: Orlovsky’s Bold Stance
ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky, known for his incisive film breakdowns, dropped a bombshell when he ranked Ty Simpson ahead of the widely celebrated Fernando Mendoza. Mendoza, a 2025 national champion and Heisman Trophy winner from Indiana, was widely projected as the likely top pick. Orlovsky’s assessment, shared on ESPN’s Get Up, positions Simpson as the best quarterback in the entire class. This isn’t a solitary opinion, either; fellow ESPN analyst and former NFL GM Mike Tannenbaum confirmed on X that “in talking to clubs this opinion is shared by other teams as well.” This suggests a deeper, perhaps less public, consensus might be forming around Simpson.
Ty Simpson vs. Fernando Mendoza: A Deeper Dive
Orlovsky’s detailed analysis points to a crucial differentiator between good and great quarterbacks: their performance “in moments of panic with the football.” After extensive film study, he gave a decisive edge to Simpson (6-1, 211 pounds) in executing “real NFL throws” under duress. These aren’t simple check-downs; Orlovsky highlighted intermediate routes like 15- to 25-yard in-routes, crossing routes, and deep corners. He emphatically stated, “it’s not even close in that regard.” While Mendoza (6-5, 236 pounds) is deemed “good” at downfield throws, Orlovsky considers the two prospects closely matched in that specific area.
The “Panic Moment” Differentiator
Simpson’s ability to make “surgical” layered throws in the intermediate game, particularly when defenders close in, impressed Orlovsky. He compared Simpson’s nuanced touch and consistent accuracy to San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, especially on balls 15-20 yards downfield. Orlovsky noted Simpson’s consistent need to throw “either between defenders or over defenders” in his college career. This trait is crucial for high-end NFL quarterbacks. Simpson also demonstrated strong playmaking ability and control at the line of scrimmage, executing pro-style concepts with high-level processing and downfield accuracy. He also suffered from a high volume of dropped passes, while Mendoza reportedly benefited from premier receivers making contested catches. Despite Mendoza’s high ranking, Orlovsky clarified that he prefers Simpson in the “15 to 20 range” of elite prospects over Mendoza at the very top.
Cleveland Browns’ Ambitious Quarterback Strategy
The Cleveland Browns are clearly in the market for a quarterback, with their current situation described as “messy.” Despite having Deshaun Watson and 2025 fifth-round pick Shedeur Sanders under contract, new head coach Todd Monken has stated the starting job is “to be determined.” This signals an open competition and a proactive approach to bolster the quarterback room. General Manager Andrew Berry reportedly has Ty Simpson high on his radar. The Browns hold significant draft capital with the No. 6, No. 24, and No. 39 picks in the early rounds, providing ample opportunity to secure a top prospect.
Why Simpson is on Cleveland’s Radar
The Browns’ struggles in their passing offense throughout the previous year, despite utilizing multiple quarterbacks, underscore their urgent need. Investing a top draft pick in a quarterback would be their first since Baker Mayfield in 2018. The potential to land an “excellent quarterback prospect” like Simpson at pick No. 6 or later is highly appealing. The Browns could even consider Simpson at No. 24 or No. 39 if he unexpectedly slides down the board. Monken himself has a personal connection to Simpson, having known him since his Georgia days through Simpson’s father, Jason Simpson, the head football coach at Tennessee-Martin and a Southern Miss alum. This existing relationship could provide invaluable intel and a comfort level for the Browns’ coaching staff.
Scouting Ty Simpson: Strengths and Areas for Growth
NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein provides a detailed scouting report on Ty Simpson, highlighting his strong mechanical foundation, including excellent footwork and release. Zierlein praises Simpson’s above-average processing skills and decision-making, noting his effectiveness in attacking intermediate zone pockets. He also has the capacity to extend plays with his legs. However, Zierlein identifies specific areas for improvement, such as timing, anticipation, and arm talent/velocity, which are currently rated as average. As a one-year starter, Simpson will need a patient coaching staff and a clear developmental roadmap to fully realize his potential.
Beyond Simpson: Other QB Options & Competition
The Browns’ quarterback search isn’t limited to Ty Simpson. They are also reportedly monitoring Malik Willis, who is expected to be a highly sought-after free agent. Willis, a former third-round pick, showed significant upside last season with the Green Bay Packers, completing 85.7% of his passes for 422 yards and three touchdowns across four appearances. However, acquiring Willis could be challenging due to his expected “decent-sized contract” and the Browns’ existing financial commitment to Deshaun Watson.
Adding another layer of intrigue, the Browns face direct competition from AFC North rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are also keenly interested in both Willis and Simpson. This cross-divisional rivalry could drive up the price tags for both players. The Steelers, too, are evaluating their future quarterback options, especially with uncertainty surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ long-term return. Other teams, like the Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals, are also reportedly eyeing Willis. The Browns’ “flush” draft capital, particularly multiple early-round picks, could allow them to “leapfrog” rivals like the Steelers to secure a top prospect like Simpson.
Unpacking Simpson’s Collegiate Journey and Potential
Ty Simpson, at 24 years old, endured a patient three-year wait at Alabama, including two seasons behind Jalen Milroe. His perseverance paid off in his lone starting season (2025), where he led Alabama to an 11-4 record and a College Football Playoff quarterfinal appearance. In 15 starts, he threw for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. His early season performance was particularly stellar, with 20 touchdowns against just one interception and a 67.8% completion rate in his first eight games. Despite a bout of gastritis that caused a significant weight loss late in the season, Simpson has since regained his strength. His ability to perform at a high level after a long wait speaks volumes about his character and readiness.
The Alabama Tenure: Patience and Production
Simpson’s journey at Alabama wasn’t without its challenges. Playing behind established talent often means delayed gratification for young quarterbacks. However, his performance once given the starting nod demonstrated his readiness. His stat line of 28 TDs against only 5 INTs reflects excellent decision-making and ball security, crucial traits for NFL success. Leading a major program like Alabama to the playoffs, even with a strong supporting cast, provides invaluable experience in high-pressure situations.
Monken’s Connection and Insights
Browns coach Todd Monken’s established relationship with Ty Simpson and his father, Jason Simpson, could be a significant advantage. Monken, who coached at Southern Miss where Jason Simpson played baseball, has followed Ty’s career closely. “I liked Ty when he was coming out,” Monken stated. “Really fond of Ty, obviously really good football player. Fired up for him because in today’s day and age, for him to stay as long as he did at Alabama and then get a chance to be the starting quarterback’s pretty cool.” This personal endorsement from a head coach carries substantial weight and underscores the Browns’ serious consideration of Simpson.
The Road Ahead: NFL Draft Implications for Cleveland
With the 2026 NFL Draft just a month away, the quarterback rankings are proving far less clear-cut than initially perceived. The Cleveland Browns find themselves in a pivotal position to reshape their quarterback room. Whether they target Ty Simpson with one of their early picks, explore free agency options like Malik Willis, or allow the current quarterback competition to play out, their decisions will significantly impact the franchise’s trajectory. The unexpected rise of Simpson in expert rankings, coupled with the Browns’ pressing need and significant draft capital, sets the stage for a compelling and potentially franchise-altering draft day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ty Simpson a compelling NFL Draft prospect according to experts like Dan Orlovsky?
According to ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky, Ty Simpson’s most compelling trait is his exceptional ability to make “real NFL throws” under pressure, specifically in “moments of panic with the football.” Orlovsky highlights Simpson’s surgical accuracy on intermediate routes (15-25 yards), layered throws, and consistent ball placement between or over defenders. He even drew comparisons to Brock Purdy for his precise intermediate game. These traits, demonstrated consistently during his lone starting season at Alabama, suggest a high-level processing ability and readiness for pro-style concepts, distinguishing him from other prospects like Fernando Mendoza.
Which NFL teams, besides the Cleveland Browns, are reportedly interested in Ty Simpson and Malik Willis for the upcoming season?
The Cleveland Browns are not alone in their pursuit of Ty Simpson and Malik Willis. Their AFC North rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers, are also actively eyeing both players as they strategize for their future quarterback needs, potentially creating a direct bidding war or draft competition. For Malik Willis specifically, other NFL teams reportedly keeping a close watch include the Miami Dolphins and the Arizona Cardinals. The Dolphins, in particular, have connections to Willis through their new coaching and general management staff, who previously worked with him in Green Bay.
Given the expert analysis, where might the Cleveland Browns realistically target Ty Simpson in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Cleveland Browns possess significant draft capital, holding the No. 6, No. 24, and No. 39 overall picks, which gives them flexibility in targeting Ty Simpson. Early mock drafts from sources like USA Today project the Browns selecting Simpson as high as No. 5 overall, indicating his potential as a top-tier prospect. However, the team has also expressed interest in considering him with their later first-round pick (No. 24) or even their early second-round pick (No. 39) if he unexpectedly slides. Given the premium placed on quarterbacks and the Browns’ urgent need, using one of their early selections, potentially No. 6, to secure a talent like Simpson seems a realistic and strong possibility to address their passing offense struggles.
