AJ McCarron to Bama Fans: Chill Out and Let Ty Simpson Grow
Alabama legend AJ McCarron has one thing to say to Crimson Tide fans: relax — Ty Simpson needs time.
With fall camp right around the corner, Simpson is still the frontrunner to win the starting quarterback job, and head coach Kalen DeBoer seems to be backing him. But not every fan is sold — and McCarron’s not having it.
On a recent episode of The Dynasty podcast, McCarron got real about what it takes to step into that starting QB role — and why fans need to show a little patience.
“Bama fans need to understand this and have some patience with Ty,” he said. “I don’t want this kid to lose his confidence off of some tough games or bad decisions. Let him gain his confidence.”
McCarron knows the pressure first-hand. He talked about his own first season as a starter back in 2011, when Bama had a stacked defense and elite running backs. The plan? Lean on the team early, let him grow into the role, and then hand him the keys when it really mattered — like the national championship game against LSU.
“I still remember Jim McElwain coming to me before that title game and saying, ‘This one’s on you. We’re throwing it early and often. I need you to be successful.’ I was ready because I had the whole season to build up to that moment.”
That’s the same approach McCarron hopes fans — and coaches — take with Simpson. Let the kid settle in. Let him make a few mistakes. Let him build confidence without expecting him to be Bryce Young on Day One.
“You don’t need every moment to be on him,” McCarron said. “Let this kid grow organically.”
Simpson will be looking to lock down the QB1 spot during fall camp — but if he does, McCarron just wants one thing: support, not pressure.
