Jul 29, 2026; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) throws a pass as quarterback Ty Simpson (15) watches during training camp at Loyola Marymount University. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Ty Simpson is Ready for NFL Debut

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Parrish Jr. | Last updated Aug 13, 2026 10:28 PM ET

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For established veterans across the league, preseason means nothing. Most don't play a single snap while watching teammates lower on the depth chart compete for roster spots.

Ty Simpson does not have to worry about solidifying a roster spot after becoming the Rams' first-round draft pick in April. He's now considered the next quarterback to carry the reins from Matthew Stafford.

That won't happen this season, maybe not even in 2027, with Stafford still playing elite football, despite turning 39 next year. But he does have to focus on being ready, with Stafford operating on a year-to-year basis, for when the Rams finally call his number.

Simpson had been putting in work after practices, making up for the lack of snaps he had been getting behind Stafford and Stetson Bennett on the depth chart. In the preseason opener Saturday against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium, however, Simpson will get the extra snaps he needs to continue to grow.

Ty Simpson talks upcoming NFL debut

Jul 27, 2026; Westchester, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Ty Simpson (15) throws the ball during training camp at Loyola Marymount University. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It will also be his first time walking into a visitors' locker room, putting on the Rams' jersey with his name on the back and walking out of the tunnel to hit the field as an NFL quarterback. Although Simpson's focus will be on executing the offense, making the reads, delivering the ball with accuracy and putting points on the board when he enters the game, he's also going to cherish the special moment.

"It will be a surreal moment for sure," Simpson said. "It's the first time I get to play a game, not only in a Rams uniform, but in an NFL uniform. I'm ready to show who I am. I'm not going to do anything I'm not capable of doing. I'm just going to stick to what I've been doing. Throw with conviction and just have fun out there. It's a whole different level, and I'm excited."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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