Ty Simpson stepped onto the scale at the NFL Combine knowing the number would speak first. It read 215 pounds.
That confirmed the former Alabama quarterback had regained the 25 pounds he lost late in the 2025 season while battling severe gastritis, according to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero.
For weeks, scouts questioned whether Simpson’s frame could withstand the NFL. At 6-foot-2, he traditionally played at 215. By the time Alabama reached the Rose Bowl, he was in the 190s. The drop showed up physically. It also showed up statistically.
Through his first 11 games as Alabama’s starter, Simpson averaged 266.7 passing yards per game, completing 66.9% of his throws with 28 touchdowns and just five interceptions. Over his final four games, production slipped to 158.3 yards per game with a 57.1% completion rate.
At the time, no public explanation was given.
Ty Simpson: The diagnosis behind the decline
Pelissero later reported Simpson was dealing with a severe case of gastritis triggered by anti-inflammatory medication prescribed for a back injury. The illness affected his weight, energy, and recovery.
By postseason play, he was significantly under his natural playing weight. For quarterbacks, durability shapes perception as much as arm talent.
Draft analyst Todd McShay addressed the Combine mindset directly, explaining that teams focus on present readiness rather than context. Simpson understood that reality.
“A lot of eating. Three meals, four meals a day, shakes, chocolate milk in the morning. Just building a routine and sticking with it…
The offseason became structured and intentional. Increased calorie intake. Strength work. Recovery management. The mission was simple: return to 215 and stabilize.
Why the weight gain changes the conversation
Quarterback evaluations often hinge on timing. Simpson’s early-season tape showed command and efficiency. His late-season dip raised concerns about stamina and physical resilience.
Now teams must evaluate him with full medical context.
He remains widely viewed as the consensus No. 2 quarterback prospect behind Fernando Mendoza, but the tone surrounding his draft stock has shifted from concern to recalibration.
Simpson also accepted responsibility for the late-season slide.
“I’ve got to play better. I’ve got to make sure we win those big-time games…
Interest across the league reflects cautious optimism. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported the Pittsburgh Steelers were impressed with Simpson’s demeanor in meetings. In conversations with head coach Mike McCarthy, discussions included protection schemes and situational football, along with references to quarterbacks McCarthy has coached, including Dak Prescott and Aaron Rodgers.
The Steelers have also conducted formal interviews with Drew Allar and Carson Beck, indicating an active evaluation process.
The path forward
The Combine reset Simpson physically. Pro day workouts and medical evaluations will further define his draft positioning.
He has restored his body. Now he must reinforce confidence in his consistency.
The version of Ty Simpson that arrived in Indianapolis looks stronger, healthier, and more certain. That may ultimately matter more than any late-season stat line.
Statistics from official Alabama game records. Health details reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Draft analysis comments from Todd McShay. Team interest reported by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
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