Jets' Stance on Picking Ty Simpson Revealed in New Rumors Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

The New York Jets need a long-term solution at quarterback, but they seem more likely to land one in the 2027 draft as opposed to getting one this year.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler relayed that rumor amid a longer point about Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson and the potential that he lands with the Arizona Cardinals.

"The Cardinals are considered the most natural suitor for Simpson in league circles. The Jets are a threat with the first pick of Day 2, but a few teams I've spoken to believe New York is looking toward 2027 to spend an early pick on a quarterback and could try to leverage the 33rd pick as Simpson trade bait if he's there. Arizona seems to be gauging whether it needs to move up to get Simpson or whether he'll be available with its second-round pick (No. 34)."

That stance makes sense for a few reasons. For starters, the Jets are all but certain to miss out on the top quarterback (and one of the best prospects) in the draft, Indiana signal-caller Fernando Mendoza, who should be going first overall to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Simpson is a solid prospect in his own right. The latest B/R NFL Scouting Department big board has him 44th overall and second among quarterbacks.

However, the Jets have three first-round picks in next year's draft: their own, the Dallas Cowboys' pick and the Indianapolis Colts' selection. The 2027 draft has some potential top prospects at quarterback, including Arch Manning of Texas and Dante Moore of Oregon.

Chances are the Jets will have a better chance of landing a top QB prospect in next year's draft. In the meantime, the Jets have veteran Geno Smith running the show.

As for Simpson, the Cardinals' connection could work. Arizona parted ways with quarterback Kyler Murray. The Cardinals do have Jacoby Brissett, who fared well in 14 games (12 starts) by throwing for 3,366 yards and 23 touchdowns. The 34-year-old is under contract for only one more year, though, so Arizona could be looking for long-term help. Simpson could very well be the answer.