The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly considering quarterback Ty Simpson in the upcoming NFL Draft, with significant speculation surrounding potential trades to acquire him. Analysts like Dane Brugler suggest Simpson could be a target, though his draft projection varies, with some believing he's a second-round talent rather than a Day 1 selection.
Simpson's draft stock appears fluid, with some insiders placing him as a second-round prospect, while others link him to first-round considerations, possibly involving trades by the Cardinals. His recent predraft visit with the team further fuels this speculation, indicating the Cardinals are conducting thorough evaluations.
Draft Day Maneuvers and Alternative Prospects
Several mock drafts indicate the Cardinals might need to trade up to secure Simpson, possibly using their second-round pick. One scenario suggests Arizona trading with the Miami Dolphins for pick No. 34 and No. 65. Other reports hint at trades involving pick No. 3 overall, though many view this as too high for Simpson, especially if elite talent is available at that spot. The Cardinals hold the No. 3 overall pick.
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Should Simpson not be their target, other quarterback options are being discussed. Dane Brugler has also highlighted later-round quarterback prospects for the Cardinals to consider. The team's long-term need at the quarterback position is a recurring theme in the analysis.
Background and Analyst Opinions
The Cardinals' quarterback situation is in flux, with the team looking for a future franchise passer. Ty Simpson has been linked to the Cardinals in mock drafts for some time, with a source telling ESPN in the fall that the team had "liked Simpson for a while." However, his draft stock has reportedly slipped as his college season progressed, moving him from a potential top-five pick to a later selection.
Dane Brugler believes Simpson is a second-round player and isn't sold on a Day 1 projection.
Mel Kiper Jr. and McShay have also connected Simpson to potential draft-day moves.
Some analysts question whether Simpson's limited college starting experience warrants a high draft pick.
There's a noted concern about the "quarterback tax," where teams may overpay for a signal-caller.
Other quarterback prospects mentioned in broader draft discussions include Fernando Mendoza, Haynes King, Cole Payton, and Mark Gronowski.