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Rams Draft Ty Simpson 13th, Target Stafford Successor

4/28/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Rams Draft Simpson

The Los Angeles Rams drafted Ty Simpson with the 13th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Rams said the pick aims to develop a successor to Matthew Stafford.
Analysts graded the pick from A to Poor, while The Athletic called Simpson its best pick.
Critics called the pick a reach, citing 15 college starts and pressure struggles, because the Rams feared the Arizona Cardinals might trade back for Simpson.

Summary

Brandt Warns Succession

Andrew Brandt, Packers VP, warns the Rams’ quarterback succession could be tough because of egos.
He cites the transitions of Brett Favre, Aaron Rodgers and Jordan Love as cautionary examples.
Brandt expects Matthew Stafford to sit beside his replacement in daily quarterback meetings in 2026.
Rams coach Sean McVay said the team remains “Stafford’s” despite drafting Ty Simpson at No. 13, a pick Brandt says likely ends the “Stafford saga” by 2027.

History

Historical Context

On April 15-16, 2000, the NFL held its annual draft at Madison Square Garden, where the New England Patriots selected Michigan quarterback Tom Brady with the 199th overall pick. Brady’s rookie selection launched a 23-year career that produced a record seven Super Bowl titles, making the draft the league’s most famous steal.

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Rams Draft Simpson

The Los Angeles Rams drafted Ty Simpson with the 13th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Rams said the pick aims to develop a successor to Matthew Stafford.
Analysts graded the pick from A to Poor, while The Athletic called Simpson its best pick.
Critics called the pick a reach, citing 15 college starts and pressure struggles, because the Rams feared the Arizona Cardinals might trade back for Simpson.

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