CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Browns are set to host Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson on a visit this Thursday, according to reports. This visit comes as the Browns begin evaluating potential quarterback prospects ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. The team is currently assessing its options at the position, and Simpson represents one of several highly-regarded quarterbacks expected to be considered.
Simpson, a rising prospect in the college football landscape, has garnered attention for his arm talent and potential. Even as still developing, he’s viewed as a player with a high ceiling. The Browns, under the leadership of General Manager Andrew Berry, have consistently demonstrated a proactive approach to player evaluation, and this visit aligns with that strategy. The team finished the 2025 season with a 10-7 record, losing in the Wild Card round of the playoffs, and the quarterback position remains a key area for potential improvement.
The Browns currently have Deshaun Watson under contract, but his performance and contract structure have led to speculation about the team potentially seeking a long-term solution at quarterback. Watson signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract with the Browns in March 2022 according to ESPN, making his situation a complex factor in the team’s quarterback planning. Simpson’s visit is part of a broader evaluation process that will likely include attending the NFL Scouting Combine and pro days at various universities.
Ty Simpson’s Background and Alabama Career
Ty Simpson is a highly-touted quarterback from Martin, Tennessee, who committed to the University of Alabama. He was a four-star recruit coming out of high school, ranked among the top quarterback prospects in his class. 247Sports consistently ranked him as one of the top players in the state of Tennessee. He has spent the past two seasons learning under veteran quarterbacks at Alabama, preparing for his opportunity to lead the Crimson Tide offense.
While Simpson hasn’t yet secured a starting role, he has shown promise in limited playing time. He is known for his strong arm, accuracy, and ability to produce quick decisions. Alabama has a long history of developing successful quarterbacks, including recent NFL Draft picks like Tua Tagovailoa and Mac Jones, and Simpson hopes to continue that tradition. His development within the Alabama program is a key factor in his draft stock.
Cleveland Browns’ Quarterback Situation
The Browns’ quarterback situation is a focal point of their offseason planning. Deshaun Watson’s performance has been inconsistent since joining the team, and his large contract limits the team’s financial flexibility. The Browns too have veteran backup quarterback Joe Flacco, who provided a spark during a late-season run in 2023, but he is unlikely to be viewed as a long-term solution.
The 2026 NFL Draft is expected to be a strong class for quarterbacks, with several highly-rated prospects potentially available. In addition to Simpson, other quarterbacks the Browns may consider include prospects from schools like USC, Oregon, and Texas. The Browns’ scouting department will be diligently evaluating these players throughout the pre-draft process. The team holds the 13th overall pick in the 2026 draft, but could potentially trade up or down depending on the availability of quarterbacks and other needs.
The Importance of Pre-Draft Visits
Pre-draft visits, like Simpson’s scheduled trip to Cleveland, are crucial for NFL teams to gather information about potential draft picks. These visits allow teams to conduct in-depth interviews, perform medical evaluations, and assess a player’s personality and fit within the team’s culture. They provide a more comprehensive evaluation than can be obtained through game film and the NFL Scouting Combine.
During these visits, teams typically meet with players, coaches, and trainers. They also review a player’s academic record and conduct background checks. The information gathered during these visits plays a significant role in a team’s draft decisions. The Browns have a history of conducting thorough pre-draft evaluations, and this visit with Simpson is a testament to their commitment to finding the right quarterback for the future.
What’s Next for the Browns and Ty Simpson
Following Simpson’s visit, the Browns will continue their evaluation of quarterback prospects. They will likely attend Alabama’s pro day to further assess Simpson’s skills and athleticism. The team will also be closely monitoring the performances of other quarterbacks in the upcoming college football season. The NFL Scouting Combine, scheduled for February 2026, will provide another opportunity to evaluate these players in a controlled environment.
For Simpson, this visit to Cleveland represents a significant opportunity to showcase his potential to an NFL team. He will be looking to impress the Browns’ coaching staff and front office with his knowledge of the game, his work ethic, and his ability to learn. The outcome of this visit, along with his performance at the Combine and pro day, will play a key role in determining his draft stock and his NFL future. The Browns will continue to assess all available options as they navigate the quarterback landscape leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Cleveland Browns’ pursuit of a franchise quarterback continues, and Ty Simpson’s visit marks an important step in that process. Fans can expect continued updates on the team’s quarterback evaluation as the draft approaches. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for the latest news and analysis.