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Day 1 Draft: Rams, Vikings, Cardinals Reach; Cowboys, Bills Trade

4/25/2026

29 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Rams Shock Draft

The Los Angeles Rams chose quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13, the biggest shock.
The Minnesota Vikings took tackle Caleb Banks at No. 18, a reach surprised analysts.
The Arizona Cardinals selected back Jeremiyah Love at No. 3, a reach called rare.
The Dallas Cowboys traded to acquire safety Caleb Downs after he slid out of top ten.
The Buffalo Bills traded back three times on Day 1 for picks within range.

Summary

Ty Simpson Valued

Fantasy managers value rookie quarterback Ty Simpson at a 1.06-1.07 overall pick in superflex dynasty drafts.
One leaguemate considered taking Simpson at 1.03 overall, but an advisor warned the steep investment is risky.
Analysts suggest grabbing a top wide receiver at 1.06 if available, treating Simpson as a discounted quarterback, and note that draft observers call the draft unusually unpredictable.

Summary

Bidwill Overpays

Owner Michael Bidwill’s interest in Bijan Love has prompted Coach Mike LaFleur to say he will overpay for a running back.
Bijan Love, a product of the Kyle Shanahan coaching tree, is compared to Christian McCaffrey.
Analysts say that selecting Love at No. 3 could shape league-wide draft trends.
The recent signing of running back Tyler Allgeier shows Arizona is adding backfield depth.

History

Historical Context

The 1998 NFL Draft on April 17-18, 1998 saw the Indianapolis Colts select quarterback Peyton Manning first overall at Madison Square Garden. Manning’s rookie 3,739-yard season and the team’s 13-3 turnaround the next year sparked a two-decade resurgence, including a Super Bowl XLI win. Today’s Rams and Arizona picks echo that bold rookie-QB gamble.

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Rams Shock Draft

The Los Angeles Rams chose quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13, the biggest shock.
The Minnesota Vikings took tackle Caleb Banks at No. 18, a reach surprised analysts.
The Arizona Cardinals selected back Jeremiyah Love at No. 3, a reach called rare.
The Dallas Cowboys traded to acquire safety Caleb Downs after he slid out of top ten.
The Buffalo Bills traded back three times on Day 1 for picks within range.

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