Story perspectives

Rams Draft QB Ty Simpson No. 13 as Stafford Successor

4/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

On April 24, 2026, the Los Angeles Rams drafted quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13.
GM Les Snead, linked to Simpson’s father John, guaranteed the selection.
Coach Sean McVay told QB Matthew Stafford the pick is for “when Stafford moves on,” making Simpson his heir.
The Rams call it a “draft-and-learn” plan, likening Simpson to Jordan Love behind Aaron Rodgers and noting his footwork, quick processing and smooth mechanics despite not yet meeting McVay.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 the St. Louis Rams drafted Marc Bulger in the third round as a developmental backup to Kurt Warner, mirroring the league’s trend of cultivating successors. The team repeated the approach in 2026, picking Ty Simpson at No. 13 to eventually replace Matthew Stafford under head coach Sean McVay; that same year Kosovo’s peace treaty was signed on June 9.

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Story summary

On April 24, 2026, the Los Angeles Rams drafted quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13.
GM Les Snead, linked to Simpson’s father John, guaranteed the selection.
Coach Sean McVay told QB Matthew Stafford the pick is for “when Stafford moves on,” making Simpson his heir.
The Rams call it a “draft-and-learn” plan, likening Simpson to Jordan Love behind Aaron Rodgers and noting his footwork, quick processing and smooth mechanics despite not yet meeting McVay.

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