Ty Simpson says Kalen DeBoer cried after he got hurt in Rose Bowl

Jan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson (15) runs against Indiana Hoosiers defensive lineman Daniel Ndukwe (17) and defensive lineman Mario Landino (97) in the first half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Kalen DeBoer and Ty Simpson shared a heartfelt moment after Simpson went down with an injury in the Rose Bowl, according to Simpson.

Simpson went down with an injury in the second quarter and was eventually told he could not return. DeBoer comforted his quarterback when the news was revealed.

“That was a really cool moment for me,” Simpson said on Jon Gruden’s “Gruden’s QB Class.” “It was upsetting because I couldn’t play, but the doctor said, “I can’t let you go.” DeBoer came in there, and I just started bawling. I started crying, and he did too. He said, “I love you and thank you so much,” gave me a big hug, and he said, “I know you want to go, but I just can’t let you.” That was cool for me because it was just a quarterback-to-coach moment. and he didn’t have to do that, and you know how much this team meant and how much this game meant to me.”

The Crimson Tide went on to lose to Indiana 38-3, and its season ended in the quarterfinal round of the College Football Playoff. Simpson was able to shift his focus to the NFL soon after, and he has put himself in a position to be a first-round pick in this month’s draft.

The Alabama quarterback will be in attendance for the draft.