In a world where Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have totally upended college athletics, Ty Simpson’s story feels refreshingly different. Even with jaw-dropping financial offers from several powerhouse programs, Simpson stuck with his childhood dream of playing in the NFL.
He leaned on the wisdom of his old coach, Nick Saban, and the values he picked up at Alabama. It’s hard not to be curious about the crossroads Simpson faced—money, legacy, or maybe something deeper?
Ty Simpson’s NIL Temptations
The NIL era has thrown college sports into a frenzy, and Simpson landed right in the middle of it. Miami, Tennessee, and Ole Miss all tried to lure him with deals that soared to almost unbelievable heights.
We’re talking about offers up to $6.5 million. That kind of money can make anyone pause. Should he chase the cash for another year in college, or go after the NFL dream he’s had since he was a kid?
Offers from Top Programs
Simpson’s agent fielded some wild numbers:
- Miami: $6.5 million
- Tennessee: $5 million
- Ole Miss: Matching Miami at $6.5 million
For a guy who hadn’t even cracked $1 million in NIL money at Alabama, these proposals must’ve been surreal. But somehow, he didn’t let them change his mind.
Guidance from Nick Saban
Nick Saban—pretty much a legend in college football—was a steadying influence for Simpson. Saban told him, *Take the money out of it. If everybody was offering you zero dollars, what would you want to do?*
That question really stuck. Simpson’s dream was always the NFL, not just a bigger college paycheck.
Family Support and Personal Values
He didn’t make the decision alone. Simpson talked it through with his parents and leaned on his faith.
His dad, Jason Simpson, who coaches at UT Martin, and his mom both told him to put happiness over money. The offers were more than his parents had earned together, but they still backed his dream.
Simpson’s Alabama Legacy
Four years at Alabama gave Simpson more than just football. He walked away with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees and waited his turn at quarterback.
Last season, he finished second in the SEC with 3,567 passing yards and 28 touchdowns. Only five interceptions in 523 attempts—pretty impressive, right?
Overcoming Adversity
Simpson played through injuries that would sideline most people: a bulging disc, elbow bursitis, even a cracked rib. He toughed it out.
Coaches like Saban and Kalen DeBoer helped shape him, pushing him to develop the grit and skills he’ll need in the NFL.
The Final Decision
In the end, Simpson declared for the NFL draft because he wanted to stay true to himself. He didn’t want to be remembered as the guy who chased money.
Feedback from NFL scouts made the choice a little easier—he’s seen as a solid first-round pick. That’s got to feel good.
Preparing for the NFL
Now, Simpson’s working out with quarterback coach David Morris at Quarterback Country. The NFL journey is underway.
It’s a story about loyalty, ambition, and maybe just a little bit of stubbornness. But isn’t that what makes sports great?
Conclusion
Ty Simpson’s story is one of loyalty and resilience. He’s chased his lifelong dreams with a kind of focus that’s honestly pretty rare these days.
With NIL deals shaking up college football, Simpson’s choice to stick with his gut and head for the NFL draft feels almost old-school. It’s a bit of a throwback, and honestly, that’s kind of refreshing.
He went from being a five-star prospect at Alabama to a projected first-round NFL pick. That arc? It’s got to inspire a lot of young athletes out there, or at least make them think a bit about what really matters.
If you want more details on Ty Simpson’s journey and what influenced his big decision, check out the full article on On3’s website here.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
