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McVay Delays Naming Rams Week 1 Backup QB

8/28/2026

20 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Coach Sean McVay said he has not yet selected the Rams’ Week 1 backup quarterback.
He started rookie Ty Simpson at quarterback Thursday.
McVay said the start was to give Simpson experience for his rookie season.
McVay isn’t ready to name a backup for Matthew Stafford before season opens Australia against San Francisco 49ers two weeks.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 the St. Louis Rams, led by coach Dick Vermeil and quarterback Kurt Warner, turned a 13-3 regular season into a Super Bowl XXXIV victory over the Tennessee Titans, highlighted by Warner’s 414 passing yards. That comeback-driven championship set a precedent for cautious roster moves, which head coach Sean McVay now mirrors by postponing the selection of a Week 1 backup for rookie quarterback Ty Simpson.

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Story summary

Coach Sean McVay said he has not yet selected the Rams’ Week 1 backup quarterback.
He started rookie Ty Simpson at quarterback Thursday.
McVay said the start was to give Simpson experience for his rookie season.
McVay isn’t ready to name a backup for Matthew Stafford before season opens Australia against San Francisco 49ers two weeks.

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