Full Breakdown
Rams Draft Ty Simpson: A Surprising First-Round Choice
4/26/2026, 6:12:57 AM
Background
Matthew Stafford, 38, earned the 2025 AP NFL MVP with a career-high 46 touchdowns and 4,707 passing yards, guiding the Rams to the NFC Championship. With one year left on his contract, the team entered the 2026 draft seeking a future successor.
Key Figures
The Rams drafted quarterback Ty Simpson, 23, at No. 13 overall. He posted 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns and a 145.2 passer rating in 2025. Matthew Stafford remains the starter; his wife Kelly welcomed Simpson via Instagram. Coach Sean McVay and GM Les Snead approved the pick.
Data
Simpson’s college numbers: 64.5 % completions, 15 starts, 3,567 yards, 28 TDs. Stafford’s MVP year: 4,707 yards, 46 TDs, 109.2 passer rating, eight interceptions. The Rams hold additional picks No. 61, 93, 207, 232, 251, 252.
Official Responses
Coach McVay said the roster is “Matthew’s football team” and framed Simpson as a move to “address the backup quarterback,” stressing collective decision-making with Snead. Kelly Stafford sent a welcoming Instagram DM offering family assistance. Simpson said he is “super ecstatic” to learn from Stafford.
Opposition
ESPN analyst Colin Cowherd called the selection “a reach,” questioning the value of a first-round quarterback when the starter is healthy and suggesting the pick could be wasted. Observers noted Simpson’s limited experience—only 15 college starts—and projected minimal playing time behind Stafford.
Impact
The pick signals a long-term succession plan, adding depth at quarterback and preserving the Rams’ competitive window. Securing a potential heir also positions Los Angeles for a high draft slot (potentially No. 31 or 32) next year if Stafford retires or declines his option.
Conflicts
Media reports differ on McVay’s reaction, describing him as “grumpy” in one press conference and smiling in the next, without clarification. No direct conversation between Simpson and Stafford has been confirmed, and the timeline for Simpson’s integration remains unspecified.
Quotes
- “Kelly has actually texted me on Instagram and welcomed me and told me to hit her up if we need anything.” — Ty Simpson, rookie quarterback
- “But I can’t wait to talk to Matthew. I’m super ecstatic because I just want to pick his brain.” — Ty Simpson
- “Let’s make one thing clear, this is Matthew’s team.” — Sean McVay, Rams head coach
- “I don’t love Ty Simpson. Do I think it’s a reach? Yeah, but you can’t get Ty Simpson in the second or third round this year.” — Colin Cowherd, ESPN analyst
Next Steps
Simpson will attend rookie minicamp in May, then training camp to compete with Stetson Bennett for the backup role. The Rams will reassess the depth chart in preseason, while Stafford’s health and contract status will shape long-term planning.
