NFL executives share strong reactions to Rams selecting QB Ty Simpson in NFL Draft

The Los Angeles Rams officially began preparing for life after reigning regular-season Most Valuable Player Matthew Stafford when they somewhat surprisingly made Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson the 13th overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. 

Nate Atkins of The Athletic is among those who have said the Rams missed a "chance to further strengthen a win-now roster" by spending such a high-value draft asset on a player who shouldn't take a meaningful in-game snap anytime soon. However, it sounds like others around the league believe the Simpson-Rams marriage could work out well for everybody involved. 

Why Ty Simpson may be perfect for Rams, Sean McVay

"Long before the draft began, coaches and team executives loved the idea of pairing Simpson with Rams coach Sean McVay, and it’s clear the league’s most brilliant offensive mind agreed," Jeff Howe of The Athletic shared. "Simpson is considered a high-end processor who deftly identifies coverages before the snap, and the 23-year-old has efficient footwork and accuracy to command a West Coast system."

Even if Stafford signs a contract extension as soon as this weekend, there seemingly is no guarantee that the 38-year-old will play beyond the 2026 season. If he does want to play into his 40s, Simpson presumably could spend multiple campaigns serving as a backup. 

Such a scenario playing out benefited future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers and current Green Bay Packers starter Jordan Love.

"Sean will get the most out of him," one executive said about Simpson while speaking with Howe. 

Rams playing the Ty Simpson long game could make them winners beyond 2026

"If you need a QB," a different executive told Howe, "[Simpson is] a first-rounder. But he’s more of a third- or maybe second-round talent. You’re betting more on what’s to come than the track record, but he’s definitely talented enough to be a starter."

The idea of "what’s to come" excited the Rams enough that they began planning for a world that will involve Stafford watching games as a spectator on Sundays. That day may not arrive until 2028, which could prove to be a blessing for both Simpson and the Rams.