With the 13th-overall pick previously in play, the Falcons traded that selection in the James Pearce Jr. deal, complicating any direct bid for top quarterbacks in this year’s draft. If Atlanta had retained that first-round pick, Simpson could have been a plausible target, along with consensus top prospects. Without it, the likelihood of landing Simpson in the opening round is reduced, and the Falcons could face the challenge of using trades to re-enter the first round.
The franchise has a fresh leadership pairing in head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Ian Cunningham, neither of whom are locked into Penix as the long-term answer. That dynamic opens the door to strategic moves, including potential trade activity to slide back into the first round for a quarterback they deem a fit. While Simpson benefits from a one-year starting profile, evaluators will weigh his processing, arm talent, and mobility as indicators of NFL-readiness.
Former Falcons head coach Mike Smith recently weighed in on Simpson, noting that while Simpson’s one-year starter resume is a potential drawback, his arm strength and ability to read pressure stand out. Smith also highlighted Simpson’s pocket movement and downfield vision, suggesting he could project as a late first-round pick if his tape impresses teams. His mobility is seen as a nuanced factor—useful for extending plays without becoming a pure dual-threat rush option.
Overall, Atlanta’s quarterback construction remains contingent on how the team values Penix, the fit of Tagovailoa, and any strategic trades to re-enter the first round for a preferred prospect. If the Falcons decide to pursue their guy, a targeted move through a draft-day trade or plan to acquire a first-rounder could shape their approach to the 2026 quarterback class.
In short, while not a guaranteed move, the Falcons’ assessment of Ty Simpson and their willingness to explore first-round opportunities will influence their draft strategy as they balance current quarterback development with long-term franchise planning. The evolving dynamic under Stefanski and Cunningham will determine whether a quarterback-rich draft path becomes a real consideration for Atlanta.
