The NFL offseason has entered the voluntary workout phase, with minicamps and training camps soon to follow. The Los Angeles Rams will not only welcome back reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford, but they also added a potential successor under center. With the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Rams selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson.
The selection of Simpson generated mixed reactions from fans and media members, with some even speculating that there may have been differing opinions within the organization. However, head coach Sean McVay and the Rams’ front office have consistently expressed unanimous support for the pick.
MORE: San Francisco 49ers star fires off on NFL turf to grass change for FIFA World Cup
That support may even extend to Stafford, who signed a one-year contract extension this offseason. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Stafford addressed the selection of Simpson and made it clear that he understands both the business side of the NFL and the realities that come with being a veteran quarterback.
“Listen, I’m not 25 years old, and I get that,” Stafford told the media after Thursday’s OTAs. “We’re doing everything we can to be as good a football team as we can for now, for the future, for all of it.”
That mindset is exactly why the Rams made the selection. After trading the 29th overall pick to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for Trent McDuffie, Los Angeles entered the draft with flexibility. The Rams also owned the Atlanta Falcons’ first-round pick as part of a 2025 draft-day trade.
When Simpson remained available, the Rams saw a quarterback who checks many of the boxes McVay values. He processes the game well, possesses NFL-caliber arm talent, and still offers significant upside after limited starting experience at the collegiate level. Stafford has already taken an active role in helping the rookie adjust.
MORE: Will the NFL suspend Kansas City Chiefs receiver Rashee Rice again?
“He’s a guy that asks questions,” Stafford said. “I’ve been trying to answer those as honestly and as thoroughly as I possibly can. He’s a smart kid. He’s got talent, obviously. Happy to add good players to our team. He’s one of them.”
It is abundantly clear that this remains Stafford’s team for at least the next two seasons. He has earned the opportunity to finish his career on his own terms. Stafford delivered a Super Bowl championship to Los Angeles in 2021. He nearly guided the Rams back to the big game this past season.
The Rams remain firmly in win-now mode. They feature a talented roster filled with offensive playmakers and impact defenders while also having the luxury of developing Simpson behind one of the league’s premier quarterbacks.
These are the types of situations NFL franchises hope to create. The Rams can continue competing for championships today while preparing for the future. For now, their focus remains simple: helping Stafford chase another Super Bowl ring.
About the Author
