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Ty Simpson's Combine Performance Boosts NFL Draft Stock

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at 17:16 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Ohio, Indiana, UNITED STATES

Indianapolis, IN - February 25th, 2026 - The 2026 NFL Combine concluded yesterday, and one name is echoing through the hallways of Lucas Oil Stadium: Ty Simpson. The USC quarterback significantly boosted his NFL Draft stock with a performance that caught the eye of multiple teams, most notably the Cleveland Browns. Simpson's improvements in both arm strength and accuracy during the Combine drills have generated considerable buzz, positioning him as a potential key player in the upcoming draft.

Simpson arrived at the Combine facing questions about his ability to consistently deliver deep throws. However, scouts and analysts observed a noticeable evolution in his throwing mechanics and velocity. Cleveland Browns Offensive Coordinator Andy Monken was particularly vocal in his praise, publicly acknowledging Simpson's growth. "I thought he made a ton of progress," Monken stated. "He's made a ton of strides in his game, and you see the arm talent when you watch him on tape. He's a tough kid. He's got a good feel. He's got a good understanding."

This isn't simply about raw physical talent. Monken's assessment highlights Simpson's mental acuity and composure - traits that are increasingly valued in modern NFL quarterbacks. While many quarterbacks possess strong arms, the ability to read defenses, process information quickly, and make smart decisions under pressure separates the good from the great. Simpson appears to be demonstrating these crucial skills.

The increasing reliance on data and metrics in the NFL draft process has placed greater importance on events like the Combine. Traditionally, pro days and game film were the primary avenues for player evaluation. Now, teams are incorporating a wealth of data points gathered from the Combine - from 40-yard dash times and vertical jumps to comprehensive throwing metrics and cognitive assessments. The standardized environment of the Combine allows for more objective comparisons between players, minimizing the influence of varying game conditions and competition levels.

Cleveland, in particular, finds itself in a precarious position at quarterback. Following a disappointing 2025 season, questions linger about the long-term viability of their current starter. While a complete overhaul isn't necessarily on the cards, the Browns are actively exploring all options, and Simpson has firmly planted himself in that conversation. He's not currently projected as a top-five pick - that space is largely reserved for the highly touted prospects from programs like Alabama and Georgia - but his Combine performance could catapult him into the first or second round, a range where the Browns currently hold multiple selections.

However, the Browns aren't alone in their interest. Several other teams, including the Los Angeles Chargers and the New Orleans Saints, have reportedly dedicated significant time to evaluating Simpson. This rising demand is likely to drive up his draft price, potentially forcing the Browns to make a calculated decision about whether to expend valuable draft capital to secure his services. A bidding war could quickly escalate, potentially pushing Simpson out of their reach.

The pressure now shifts back to Simpson. The Combine provided a platform to showcase his potential, but translating that performance onto the NFL field is the ultimate challenge. Consistency will be key. Can he replicate his accuracy and arm strength against NFL-caliber defenses? Can he maintain his composure under the bright lights of game day? These are the questions that teams will be scrutinizing in the coming weeks, through further film study and private workouts.

Beyond Simpson, this year's Combine highlights a trend toward more pro-style offenses in college football, potentially leading to quarterbacks more readily prepared for the NFL. The quarterbacks who thrive in these systems often demonstrate a greater understanding of complex concepts and a quicker transition to the professional game. Analysts suggest that Simpson's time at USC, a program known for its offensive sophistication, has contributed to his rapid development.

Ultimately, the NFL Draft is a complex puzzle, and teams are constantly weighing risk and reward. Ty Simpson has undoubtedly improved his position, earning himself a valuable opportunity. Whether that opportunity translates into a successful NFL career remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his performance at the 2026 NFL Combine has made him a name to watch on draft day.