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Lions Draft Ty Simpson; Stafford Promises Guidance

5/28/2026

Summary

Stafford Welcomes Simpson

Matthew Stafford welcomed rookie Ty Simpson after the Lions selected him 13th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Stafford told Simpson he enjoyed watching him play but noted he wore the wrong jersey, not a Georgia Bulldog, and pledged to share knowledge.
The Lions expect Simpson to develop through January 2027 before a starting role, viewing him as a future franchise quarterback while Stafford stays starter through 2027.

Summary

Stafford Re-signs

Matt Stafford signed a one-year, $55 million contract that extends his stay with the Los Angeles Rams through 2027, with triggers for an extension.
He entered 2026 as the defending MVP after a First Team All-Pro 2025 season.
Stafford called his Detroit Lions years a 74-90-1 regular-season record and 0-3 postseason record.
He said his body feels good after back issues and that retirement will hinge on health, excitement, and family’s wishes.

Summary

Rams Draft Simpson

The Rams announced quarterback Ty Simpson after a secret meeting with head coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead before finalizing the pick.
McVay said he spoke with veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford the morning of the draft, confirming Stafford’s support for Simpson.
Analysts noted the Rams could have addressed immediate needs with an offensive lineman or playmaker, emphasizing the organization remains in win-now mode as Simpson develops.

Summary

Grisak Flags QB

Blaine Grisak serves as Lead Publisher for Rams coverage at Sports Illustrated, overseeing Los Angeles reporting.
He previously reported on the Rams for TurfShow Times, attending the NFL Draft, NFL Combine and Senior Bowl.
On 2026-05-27 at 14:10:21 UTC, his article on the quarterback depth-chart competition noted the Rams’ habit of integrating rookie quarterbacks slowly.
The piece warned that fan scrutiny will intensify around Ty Simpson’s backup role.

History

Historical Context

After the Colts turned a 2-14 season into an 11-5 playoff run in 2012 by pairing rookie Andrew Luck with veteran Peyton Manning, the league has seen veteran-rookie mentorship as a viable path. In 2026 the Rams are repeating that model, with veteran Matthew Stafford guiding rookie Ty Simpson, hoping to sustain competitiveness while the youngster develops.

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Stafford Welcomes Simpson

Matthew Stafford welcomed rookie Ty Simpson after the Lions selected him 13th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Stafford told Simpson he enjoyed watching him play but noted he wore the wrong jersey, not a Georgia Bulldog, and pledged to share knowledge.
The Lions expect Simpson to develop through January 2027 before a starting role, viewing him as a future franchise quarterback while Stafford stays starter through 2027.

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