“Ty Simpson Era Begins: Former Five-Star Set to Lead Alabama as Starting QB in 2025 After Jalen Milroe’s NFL Departure”

With just over a month remaining until the Alabama Crimson Tide kick off their 2025 college football campaign, anticipation is building rapidly in Tuscaloosa, and all eyes are shifting toward the presumed new face of the program: Ty Simpson. The changing of the guard at quarterback is a significant storyline in college football every year, but in Alabama — where quarterback play can define championship destiny — it carries even greater weight. Following Jalen Milroe’s departure to the NFL, the next chapter in Alabama’s storied quarterback lineage seems ready to be authored by a player who’s been patiently waiting his turn. Ty Simpson, once a five-star recruit, is now set to take command of the most scrutinized position in the SEC, and the spotlight couldn’t be brighter. For Simpson, the journey to this moment has been anything but rushed. In an era when quarterback transfers are frequent and patience is fleeting, his decision to stick with Alabama despite sitting behind Bryce Young and Jalen Milroe speaks volumes about his commitment, character, and belief in the process. His willingness to learn, grow, and prepare in the shadows may prove to be the foundation for success now that it’s his time to shine. Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer, entering his second season at the helm, has kept his cards relatively close to the chest regarding the quarterback battle. But those close to the program suggest that Simpson has distanced himself this offseason with poise, consistency, and mastery of the offense. With Milroe off to the NFL and no high-profile transfer portal additions at the position, the road seems cleared for Simpson to be the Week 1 starter — and potentially much more. What makes Simpson’s rise even more intriguing is the context in which it unfolds. Alabama is in transition. Gone are the days of Nick Saban manning the sideline, though Saban still remains close to the program as a senior advisor. DeBoer brings a new energy and a slightly different offensive philosophy that relies more heavily on precision passing, play-action balance, and rapid decision-making — a system that could play directly into Simpson’s strengths. Simpson’s skill set offers much to be excited about. At 6’2” and over 200 pounds, he possesses the size and athleticism to evade pressure and extend plays. More importantly, he brings a cerebral approach to the game. Known for his high football IQ dating back to his days at Westview High School in Tennessee, where he dazzled scouts with his arm talent and leadership, Simpson has long been seen as someone who simply “gets it.” That mental edge, combined with his physical gifts, gives Alabama a quarterback who may not need to lean solely on raw talent — he brings polish to the position. Throughout spring practices and into fall camp, Simpson has reportedly impressed teammates and coaches alike with his command of the huddle and growing chemistry with the receiving corps. In particular, his rapport with wideouts Kendrick Law, Kobe Prentice, and breakout candidate Jaren Hamilton has drawn praise. With Ja’Corey Brooks transferring out and Isaiah Bond moving on, Alabama’s receiver room is youthful but hungry — and Simpson appears to be the right quarterback to grow with them. Beyond the field, Simpson’s leadership has also begun to emerge. Quietly confident, he’s been praised for being a steadying presence in the locker room. In a program that is undergoing a coaching transition and philosophical shift, that kind of demeanor could be invaluable. Simpson isn’t trying to be Bryce Young or Jalen Milroe — he’s trying to be the best version of himself, and that authenticity has earned the respect of the locker room. While expectations are always high at Alabama, this year’s pressure is especially unique. The Crimson Tide are seeking to reestablish themselves at the top of the college football world after a playoff miss last season and a wave of player departures. For Simpson, this moment isn’t just about replacing a quarterback — it’s about stabilizing a program that finds itself in rare transition. That comes with enormous responsibility but also a tremendous opportunity. If he rises to the occasion, he’ll not only write his own legacy but help launch the DeBoer era with a statement. It’s also worth noting that Simpson’s path to this point was not without competition. Julian Sayin, the highly-touted freshman who briefly flirted with early playing time, transferred to Ohio State earlier this year. Austin Mack and Dylan Lonergan remain on the roster, and both are capable players, but neither has matched Simpson’s level of readiness or experience. That leaves Alabama in a unique spot — with a quarterback room that is talented but relatively untested, and a presumed starter in Simpson who has paid his dues and is ready to take the reins. As for Simpson’s goals, those around him suggest he’s locked in. Though he has made few public statements, sources indicate that Simpson spent much of the offseason studying film, improving his pocket presence, and working on ball security. After limited appearances in mop-up duty over the past two seasons, he knows that the spotlight brings scrutiny — every throw, every read, every audible will be analyzed. But he also knows he’s equipped for the task. The support around Simpson also matters. Alabama returns a deep and talented offensive line led by left tackle Kadyn Proctor, who’s back from a brief stint in the transfer portal, and veteran center James Brockermeyer. That group will be crucial in protecting Simpson and establishing the run game, which could be spearheaded by Jam Miller and Justice Haynes — two backs who bring power, speed, and versatility. If the Tide can run the ball effectively, it will ease Simpson’s burden and allow him to operate with more freedom and less pressure. On the defensive side, Alabama once again boasts talent across the board, including standout linebacker Deontae Lawson and cornerback Earl Little Jr. A strong defense should help keep games manageable as Simpson settles into the starter role. Add to that the guidance of offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan, who’s quickly earned a reputation for quarterback development, and it becomes clear that Simpson is walking into a situation built to support him. The schedule offers no favors, however. Alabama will be tested early and often, including high-stakes matchups against Georgia, Tennessee, LSU, and Oklahoma — now an SEC foe. Those games will test Simpson’s composure, accuracy, and ability to lead in the clutch. But they will also provide the national stage for him to showcase what he can do. Every snap, every throw, every moment could shape the narrative of Simpson’s career — and potentially his draft stock, should things unfold the right way. What fans should remember is that success at Alabama, especially for a first-year starter, doesn’t always look like perfection. Even Jalen Hurts, Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, and Bryce Young had learning curves. What matters is whether Simpson can manage those moments of adversity, respond to mistakes, and continue to grow. His ability to stay the course and remain even-keeled could ultimately define his season. For all the noise surrounding this transition — from coaching staff changes to a reshuffled SEC landscape — Ty Simpson’s emergence may be the most crucial factor in Alabama’s 2025 story. If he lives up to the potential that made him a five-star recruit, Alabama will be right back in the national title conversation. If he falters, the pressure and spotlight could grow even harsher — not just for him, but for a program trying to forge a new identity post-Saban. But based on everything we know, Ty Simpson is not someone who shies away from big moments. He’s someone who embraces them. He’s waited, worked, and learned. Now, it’s his time to lead. For Alabama fans hoping for a smooth transition into the next great era of Crimson Tide football, the early signs suggest that Simpson could be exactly what the program needs: steady, talented, humble, and hungry. The Ty Simpson era has officially begun. And for a team used to winning, anything less than excellence won’t do. Simpson knows that. He’s not just chasing wins — he’s chasing legacy. And if everything clicks, he might just become the next great name in Alabama quarterback history.