QB Ty Simpson Predicted to Join Struggling NFC Team in 2026 NFL Draft

The Arizona Cardinals have the No. 3 pick in the 2026 draft following a disappointing 3-14 season. After releasing Kyler Murray and signing Gardner Minshew, drafting a quarterback seems likely for the franchise. But the question is when, and more specifically, how.

Trading back into Round 1 for a quarterback is "not out of the realm of possibility," according to ESPN, and Arizona has had a favorable view of Alabama Crimson Tide's Ty Simpson for some time.

That's the scenario gaining traction as draft night approaches -- they use the No. 3 pick on a non-quarterback, then buy back in to land their signal-caller of the future.

The struggling NFC team may copy the 2025 New York Giants' strategy to use their No. 3 pick on a top defender, then trade back into the late first round for a quarterback. ESPN's Field Yates identifies the Buffalo Bills at No. 27 as the most logical trade partners because Buffalo needs more picks, while Arizona has enough assets to move up.

A package of Arizona's second-rounder (No. 34) and third-rounder (No. 65) could be enough to make the jump and acquire Simpson.

After three years with limited playing time, Simpson's entire draft stock rose following his breakout campaign in 2025, where he posted 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. By trading back into the first round for him, the Cardinals would secure the critical fifth-year contract option on his rookie deal.

NFL.com's Charles Davis expects the 23-year-old to join the Cardinals regardless of when they pick. He noted that Simpson's early 2025 tape showed a quarterback who could move well in the pocket and throw with high velocity when he had a clean base.

However, not everyone is sold on his ceiling. An ESPN source questioned if the Tennessee native is truly a first-round talent, adding, "I think you can win with him, not because of him. Whatever round that is. He's got ability and if you need one, you take one."

The betting markets now favor Arizona to land Ty Simpson at +105. While the Pittsburgh Steelers were once considered a top destination, Mel Kiper Jr. reported on Thursday that he heard a no from them. In his latest mock, he projects the Cardinals trading up with the Miami Dolphins to secure Simpson at No. 30.

Related: Tom Brady Sends Clear Message to Patriots Before NFL Draft

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This story was originally published April 18, 2026 at 9:57 AM.