Rookie Simpson Flashes Star Potential for the Rams' Future
LOS ANGELES – NFL fans were shocked during this year’s draft when the Rams selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with their first-round pick.
With Matthew Stafford coming off an MVP season, the Rams were widely projected to take a receiver to complement their star duo of Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.
Instead, general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay opted for a quarterback at 13th overall. While the initial reaction was met with skepticism, prioritizing the franchise's future became clear for Los Angeles.
Following limited action in Week 2, Simpson got the start against the Chargers in the preseason finale. Facing a Chargers defense that ranked top five in the NFL last season, and with Los Angeles playing mostly starters, Thursday night gave the Rams their best look yet at the rookie. Battling Stetson Bennett for the backup job, Simpson delivered a performance that appeared to validate Snead and McVay's bold selection.
Simpson looked sharp in his second preseason start, finishing 18-of-23 for 119 yards and a nifty, on-the-run, go-ahead touchdown pass to wide receiver Brennan Pressley. He credited his preparation and leadership around him for helping maintain his command against an elite defense.
"Felt better prepared with more reps, more time, and understanding everything," said Simpson. "With Matthew and Stetson helping me out any chance they could get, I feel really good with where I’m at. But you know, still a lot I need to work on."
Simpson wrapped up an impressive preseason with a combined 47-of-60 passing for 382 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions, surpassing expectations for a surprise draft pick.
"I thought he was in good command and made good decisions," said McVay on Simpson. "They’re [the Chargers] a really good defense bringing everything they got… and I thought Ty did a great job tonight."
The Rams defeated the Chargers 20-18 to finish the preseason undefeated at 3-0. While a definitive backup quarterback has not yet been named, Simpson has made a strong case to back up MVP Matthew Stafford and eventually become his successor.
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