Rams Draft Ty Simpson at No. 13 as Insurance for 38-Year-Old Matthew Stafford
Updated
Updated · Rams Wire · May 20
Rams Draft Ty Simpson at No. 13 as Insurance for 38-Year-Old Matthew Stafford
6 articles · Updated · Rams Wire · May 20
The Rams used the 13th overall pick on Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, prioritizing long-term fit and immediate backup value over a rookie expected to start in Week 1.
Sean McVay’s offense appears central to the choice: Simpson is viewed as coachable, careful with the ball and comfortable operating within structure, traits that align with Los Angeles’ system.
The pick also addresses risk behind Stafford, whose back issues last season exposed the need for a more credible reserve than veteran stopgaps such as Jimmy Garoppolo.
Simpson arrives after waiting behind Bryce Young and Jalen Milroe at Alabama, then helping push the Crimson Tide into the College Football Playoff despite broader offensive problems.
For a Rams roster still facing depth questions, the selection amounts to a bet that quarterback insurance and scheme fit will matter more than a rookie contributor elsewhere.
Did Les Snead's secret pre-draft promise to Ty Simpson compromise the Rams' entire 2026 draft strategy?
With Matthew Stafford's new contract, was drafting his replacement a brilliant move or the Rams' costliest mistake?