TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson has made a decision that is turning heads across the sport. According to sources close to the program, Simpson recently turned down a record-breaking $9.5 million NIL offer from a rival Power Four collective, choosing instead to remain at Alabama and finish his college career in Tuscaloosa ahead of a likely NFL Draft declaration.
The offer, which would have made Simpson one of the highest-paid players in college football history, was presented earlier this offseason and included multi-year guarantees, national marketing opportunities, and full control over brand partnerships. Despite the financial magnitude, Simpson never entered the transfer portal and quickly informed Alabama coaches of his intention to stay.
“This place believed in me before the spotlight,” Simpson said in a brief statement. “I came to Alabama to compete, to grow, and to win championships. That hasn’t changed. There are things bigger than money, especially when you’re building something with your teammates.”
Simpson, a former five-star recruit from Martin, Tennessee, has spent his career developing within Alabama’s quarterback room, patiently waiting his turn behind established starters. His growth over the past two seasons has impressed NFL scouts, who view him as a pro-style quarterback with strong arm talent, improved pocket awareness, and leadership traits that translate to the next level.
Those evaluations fueled the aggressive NIL pursuit. Several collectives reportedly viewed Simpson as a plug-and-play starter capable of instantly elevating a program’s national profile. Yet sources say Simpson’s decision came down to trust in Alabama’s development system and a desire to enter the NFL Draft on his own terms, not as a short-term rental.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Simpson’s commitment, calling it “a reflection of character and belief in the process.”
“Ty has handled everything the right way,” DeBoer said. “He’s earned the respect of this locker room, and his leadership matters. Decisions like this send a powerful message about what this program stands for.”
Inside the Alabama locker room, Simpson’s choice resonated deeply. Teammates described it as a stabilizing moment during a chaotic offseason across college football, where roster continuity has become increasingly rare. Several players noted that Simpson’s presence reinforces a culture built on competition rather than transaction.
From a broader perspective, the decision adds fuel to the ongoing national conversation around NIL reform. While NIL opportunities continue to grow, Simpson’s move underscores the tension between immediate financial gain and long-term professional development.
NFL personnel executives also took notice. One AFC scout described Simpson’s decision as “a positive data point,” noting that teams value quarterbacks who demonstrate patience, loyalty, and confidence in their preparation.
Simpson now comes into the season as a key player in Alabama’s hopes of winning a title. His decision has already solidified his legacy in Tuscaloosa—not only as a quarterback, but also as a representation of dedication in a sport that is changing quickly, regardless of whether this is his last season in college.
Ty Simpson made the decision to wear crimson to symbolize devotion, belief, and unresolved business in a world of collegiate football that is dominated by numbers and agreements.
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