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Analysts Push Ty Simpson as QB1 While Fernando Mendoza Remains Projected No. 1 Pick

The split signals a live debate that could shift with pro‑day workouts before the April draft.

Overview

  • ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky, on Monday’s Get Up, called Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson the best player in this class, and former GM Mike Tannenbaum said some teams share that view.
  • On Tuesday, Mel Kiper Jr. rejected that stance, keeping Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 on his board and ranking Simpson 25th.
  • Most draft projections still have the Raiders taking Mendoza first overall after his Heisman season and national title run with Indiana.
  • Fresh PFF rankings released Tuesday list Mendoza as the top quarterback over Simpson based on higher accuracy and stronger grades when pressured.
  • Simpson’s case now rests on team evaluations and Alabama’s pro day, with Adam Schefter expecting him to go in Round 1 despite only 15 college starts.