May 11, 2025 — In one of the most surprising twists of the college football offseason, Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson has officially decommitted from the program and announced his intention to join the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons as an underclassman. The announcement, made via a video statement on Simpson’s social media channels Sunday afternoon, has sent shockwaves through Tuscaloosa and reshaped early draft buzz for 2026.
From Tide Starter to Pro Prospect
Simpson, who burst onto the scene as a five-star recruit in the 2022 class, had been viewed as one of the top long-term plan quarterbacks for Nick Saban’s offense. Over three seasons in Tuscaloosa, he compiled a 12–2 starting record and threw for 3,400 yards with 28 touchdowns, despite sharing snaps in a crowded QB room. His poise under center, strong arm and mobility made him a fan favorite—and, until today, a presumed heir to the Crimson Tide throne.
Video Announcement Details
In the three-minute video, Simpson addressed fans, teammates and coaches with gratitude before dropping the bombshell:
“Arizona, Los Angeles, Atlanta—I’ve weighed every option. But when I look at where I want to be and who I want to play for, my mind and my heart are set. I’m decommitting from Alabama and declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft. And when my name is called, it’s going to be in Falcons red and black.”
He closed by thanking Alabama’s staff and his teammates for “helping me grow on and off the field,” then pledged to maintain strong ties with the campus community.
Falcons Poised for QB Reinforcement
Atlanta’s front office, still smarting from an inconsistent performance at quarterback in 2024, reportedly sees Simpson as a potential franchise cornerstone. Early mock drafts had pegged Simpson as a late-first- or early-second-round talent; his early declaration and choice of destination suggest the Falcons may trade up to secure him. Sources in Atlanta tell ESPN that team executives have already begun “informal discussions” with Simpson’s agent about pre-draft workouts and interview logistics.
Reactions and Next Steps
Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban, who had publicly praised Simpson’s leadership this spring, issued a brief statement late Sunday night:
“We respect Ty’s decision and wish him the very best. He’s a talented young man who will succeed at the next level.”
Teammates flooded social media with shock and support—veteran center Josh Thomas tweeted “Can’t believe we’re losing Ice Man, but proud of you bro,” while backup QB Blake Riley called Simpson “a competitor who’ll excel no matter where he plays.”
Simpson will forgo his remaining college eligibility and focus on preparing for the NFL Combine in February 2026. In the meantime, Falcons fans and draft analysts will be watching closely as one of college football’s brightest young stars makes an unprecedented leap straight from the Tide to the pros.