Former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson officially began his transition to the professional ranks at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. During the event, significant context regarding the conclusion of his collegiate career came to light.
The College Football Playoff Injury
It was revealed during the Combine process that Simpson suffered a cracked rib during the Rose Bowl matchup against Indiana in the College Football Playoff. Despite the injury, Simpson remained in the game and completed the contest.
Simpson finished the 2025 season leading the Southeastern Conference in both completions and pass attempts. His decision to play through a core injury in the quarterfinal game underscores the physical demands of postseason football and provides factual context to the offense's performance metrics in that specific matchup.
Combine Participation
Rather than deferring to Alabama's campus Pro Day for physical testing and passing drills, Simpson elected to throw for NFL personnel at Lucas Oil Stadium. This participation confirmed his physical recovery from the January rib injury. Simpson was one of 12 Alabama players invited to the 2026 Combine, the second-highest total of any single program.
Program Perspective: For Alabama fans tracking the history of the program's quarterbacks, Simpson's final game will be noted for his endurance. Playing through a cracked rib in a playoff setting is a documented testament to his physical toughness during Kalen DeBoer's tenure.