Stephen A. Smith Urges Steelers to Draft Alabama QB Ty Simpson Amid Quarterback Uncertainty

ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has made headlines by urging the Pittsburgh Steelers to select Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson in the upcoming NFL Draft, pointing to the team’s persistent search for a long-term solution under center. Smith’s call comes as the Steelers enter the draft with questions swirling around their quarterback depth chart after recent seasons of inconsistency and change.

Smith’s advocacy for Simpson is rooted in the belief that the former Alabama signal-caller possesses the skill set and leadership qualities needed to stabilize the Steelers’ offense. Simpson, who started for the Crimson Tide during the 2025 college football season, is regarded as a poised passer with strong football instincts and the ability to extend plays—traits that have garnered attention from NFL scouts and analysts alike.

The Steelers’ quarterback situation has been unsettled since the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger. Last season, the team cycled through multiple starters, struggling to find consistent production at the position. Smith emphasized that drafting Simpson could offer the franchise a fresh start and a potential franchise cornerstone.

• Smith is known for his emphatic and influential takes on NFL roster decisions, often sparking debate among fans and experts.
• Ty Simpson completed 67.8% of his passes for 3,255 yards, 27 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions in his final season at Alabama, per official NCAA statistics.
• The Steelers hold a mid-first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, positioning them to potentially select a top quarterback prospect.

While several quarterback prospects are expected to come off the board early, Smith’s endorsement of Simpson underscores the growing sentiment that Pittsburgh must prioritize the position if they hope to contend in the competitive AFC North. The team’s offensive struggles last year—ranking outside the top 20 in both passing yards and scoring—amplify the urgency for a dynamic playmaker at quarterback.

Drafting a player of Simpson’s caliber would signal a commitment to rebuilding around a young leader who thrived at one of college football’s premier programs. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Steelers’ decision-makers and whether they heed calls to select Ty Simpson as their next franchise quarterback.