Overview
- The Rams surprised many by drafting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13 on April 23, and Simpson says he is ignoring outside criticism and focusing on his work.
- Simpson told Sports Illustrated he plans to learn from Matthew Stafford, coach Sean McVay and top receivers Davante Adams and Puka Nacua as part of his development.
- The team agreed to a one‑year Stafford extension on May 22 that keeps Stafford under contract through 2027 and concretely delays Simpson’s likely window to start until about the 2028 season.
- Simpson is navigating rookie life in Los Angeles, describing a culture shock from rural Tennessee, expressing reluctance to miss Rams practices to attend NFLPA events, and taking part in promotional appearances that included a uniform‑presentation dispute at the Rookie Premiere.
- For the Rams the pick creates a succession plan that trades immediate production for long‑term depth, giving Simpson time to learn while the team maintains a proven starter and protects its near‑term competitiveness.