The Alabama Crimson Tide is beginning a new chapter at quarterback, with Ty Simpson expected to take on the starting role. According to Alabama insider Clint Lamb, this change could be beneficial for the team’s offense.
Jalen Milroe, who had been leading the Alabama offense for the past few years, declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. Although Milroe was known for his dynamic physicality and exciting playmaking, he struggled with accuracy and control.
Ty Simpson, a sophomore quarterback from Martin, Tennessee, is known for being a more precise passer, capable of distributing the ball effectively down the field. While he may not offer the same rushing threat as Milroe, his accuracy is considered a stronger asset.
“He (Simpson) throws with accuracy. Ball placement, in my opinion, has been a little spotty at times? Yes, but I think he is way more consistent with ball placement and accuracy than Jalen Milroe,” Clint Lamb stated.
Simpson has seen limited action during his time at Alabama, with a modest 2024 performance where he completed 14 of 25 passes for 167 yards. Additionally, he ran the ball eight times for 44 yards and a touchdown.
Simpson is also a better fit for Kalen DeBoer’s offensive system, which emphasizes short, precise throws that allow receivers to gain yards after the catch. This style was exemplified by Michael Penix Jr. at Washington, where it contributed to his first-round NFL draft selection.
“One of the biggest issues that I personally have with Jalen Milroe is even when the passes were completed, very rarely were they put in a position where the receivers could generate a lot of yardage after the catch, and when you’re doing the quick swing passes, getting it out, the quick passing game, that’s what it’s designed to do,” Clint Lamb added.
Alabama will aim to return to the College Football Playoff after narrowly missing out in 2024, finishing with a 9-4 record, including a loss to Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl.
Kalen DeBoer, who attended the Senior Bowl, also shared positive comments about Ty Simpson.
“You certainly appreciate what he’s done,” DeBoer said. “Just continue to work on what he can control, and that’s himself. Continue to build relationships to get ready for this chance that he has right in front of him. To not just step up as a leader because I think he’s been doing that but to have that opportunity to step in and be the quarterback.”
Simpson, a 5-star quarterback recruit, is now the leading contender for the starting role at Alabama, though he may face competition from Keelon Russell or Austin Mack.
The Crimson Tide will begin their season on Aug. 30 with a game against Florida State in Tallahassee.
