“We tried to keep this under wraps as long as we could,” Simpson told Ian Fitzsimmons of ESPN Radio. “It was something to where I knew they were interested, but they wanted to make it private and didn’t want people to know that they were interested.“

It was there that the former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback finally revealed his private meetings with his new head coach: “So, I had some secret meetings with Coach McVay, and I just was trying to be on script and do what everybody told me and not to tell anybody.”

Eventually, the strategy worked to perfection. Simpson kept things tightly under wraps, and his arrival at the Rams was ultimately finalized, to the satisfaction of both sides. Now, it’s time to repay that trust over the course of the upcoming season.

Was the Rams’ decision the right one?

The Los Angeles Rams selected Ty Simpson as a strategic investment in their post-Matthew Stafford future. While the team remains in “win-now” mode with Stafford as the reigning MVP, his age (38) and history of back injuries forced GM Les Snead to prioritize a long-term successor over immediate depth at other positions.

The Rams chose Simpson specifically for his elite football IQ, pocket mobility, and high-level processing skills, which Sean McVay views as the perfect fit for his complex system. By drafting him now, they ensure Simpson can develop for a year or two behind Stafford—much like the Packers’ model with Jordan Love—rather than being forced to overpay for a veteran or reach for a less-talented prospect once Stafford eventually retires.

The rest of Los Angeles’ Draft picks

The Los Angeles Rams prioritized long-term stability in their 2026 draft class, selecting only five players to focus on key developmental roles. Beyond the strategic pick of Ty Simpson, the Rams added Max Klare (TE, Ohio State) in the second round to bolster their heavy personnel packages and Keagen Trost (OT, Missouri) in the third to provide much-needed insurance for their aging offensive line.

On Day 3, they focused on depth by selecting CJ Daniels (WR, Miami) in the sixth round and Tim Keenan III (DL, Alabama) in the seventh, effectively targeting high-upside prospects to secure the team’s future transition once their current veteran core begins to move on.

Prior to the NFL Draft, Jimmy Garoppolo surprised the Rams by considering retirement. This uncertainty forced Los Angeles to adjust their draft strategy, leading them to select Ty Simpson at No. 13 overall to secure the quarterback room.

With Simpson’s arrival, many wondered if he would eventually bench Stafford. However, while the veteran is open to mentoring the former Alabama standout, McVay has emphasized that Stafford is the starter for the foreseeable future—not just for one year.

“He couldn’t be more of a stud,” McVay said about Stafford. “When you’re an elite competitor the way he is, he responded exactly the way I would want to. He’s going to put his arm around this guy. . . . He’s like, ‘I understand it.’ He’s earned the right to be year to year, and if he tells me he wants to play three more years, no one would be more excited about that than me.”

The Rams are preparing for the future

Although Sean McVay stated that Simpson will have to compete for the backup role, the front office clearly views Ty as the future of the franchise. Investing a top-15 pick in a quarterback is a move intended for more than just finding an elite backup.

The Rams are aware that Simpson—who had a limited number of college starts—needs a mentor to develop properly. That mentor is Matthew Stafford, a future Hall of Famer whose guidance could lead the young signal-caller to success.

Stetson Bennett IV remains the other quarterback on the roster. However, he has not seen significant action since arriving in 2023, as the Rams previously preferred Jimmy Garoppolo in the primary backup role.

One last ride for Matthew Stafford… or not?

Sean McVay recently remarked that he would love to have Matthew Stafford for “three or more years,” a statement that suggests Simpson may have to wait his turn. Ultimately, the timeline depends on the veteran’s eventual decision to retire.

Stafford, who is coming off a 2025 NFL MVP season, has already won a Super Bowl and secured his Hall of Fame legacy. Nevertheless, his desire to win more—combined with the Rams’ competitive roster—suggests he may stay on the field longer than many originally expected.

McVay admitted he was moody. “That was never my intended way to be able to come off, but sometimes I can be a little grumpy.” McVay also cleared the air saying his relationship with GM Les Snead is great. “This is my buddy right here,” the Rams HC said.

As for why he was moody, McVay said “Well, there were other things that had nothing to do with that, which that’s normal life.” He didn’t say much more than that, but apparently, Ty Simpson was not the reason for his angered mood.

McVay actually spoke well of Ty Simpson

“I’m excited to be able to add Ty. What a blessing it is for him to be able to learn from Matthew and to be able to come into this atmosphere and environment,” McVay said. The head coach did still say that the Rams are Matthew Stafford’s team, and there is no pressure for him to retire.

McVay is a highly emotional person, for good or bad. That’s also what makes him a great leader of men, able to galvanize his troops to get the best out of them on the field. He is one of the best characters in the NFL and actually, Ty Simpson could learn a lot from him.

The Rams could’ve gone all-in, but opted for the future

The Rams were so close to go to a Super Bowl last season, that many expected to target gamechangers to challenge once again for the throne. However, they opted to get an heir to Matthew Stafford.

This also means the Rams think they can challenge for a Super Bowl with their roster right now, without the need of new pieces. They will try to run it back in what could be Stafford’s swan song.

When asked if Simpson was the first target, McVay said, “Let’s make one thing clear, this is Matthew’s [Stafford] team. You get a chance to be able to address the backup quarterback. We’ve got Stetson.”

Then he was asked about the expectations, and McVay said “we’ll see, he’s got to compete with Stetson [Bennett].“ Hence, the Rams head coach let everyone know Simpson is not even guaranteed to be the QB2 behind Stafford. That’s awfully concerning for such a high pick in the draft.

Stetson Bennett’s status with the Rams

Bennett had two runs at the National Championship during his Georgia days and won both affairs. He is one of the most decorated college quarterbacks of all time. However, he has never had a good NFL stock. He was picked 128th in the 2023 NFL Draft.

However, Bennett has only played in preseason games for the Rams. However, it seems like he won’t be relegated unless Ty Simpson wins that QB2 battle in preseason. Now, it’s up to the Alabama product to beat the Georgia alumn to prove he is worth his draft pick.

If he beats Bennett, it’s a best-case scenario for Simpson

If Simpson gets over the hurdle of Bennett, this could be the best thing that happens to him. Getting to learn from a future Hall of Famer like Matthew Stafford on a prolific scheme like Sean McVay’s is an incredible setting for a guy like Simpson.

Following Jimmy Garoppolo’s decision to retire, the Rams needed to add a quarterback to back up Matthew Stafford, who will leave football soon. Consequently, they selected former Alabama standout Ty Simpson in the 2026 NFL Draft.

With Simpson’s arrival, Matthew Stafford remains the QB1 on the depth chart. Simpson is now set to compete against Stetson Bennett IV for the backup role in the upcoming season.

By drafting Ty Simpson at No. 13 overall, the Rams have officially launched their “life after Stafford” plan. This selection is a major pivot for a team that hasn’t used a first-round pick on a quarterback since Jared Goff in 2016.

The Rams made a smart, albeit risky, selection

While Ty Simpson believed he might have slipped to Day 2, the Rams moved to ensure he was a Day 1 pick. His arrival makes sense, yet there are lingering doubts about whether he was worthy of a first-round selection.

According to scouts, Simpson’s stature and lack of starting experience in college raised concerns about his immediate NFL readiness. Nevertheless, the Rams believe that learning behind Matthew Stafford will give him the necessary time to develop before the veteran eventually retires.

This move also significantly impacts Stetson Bennett IV. Although he was the team’s fourth-round pick in 2023, the selection of Simpson suggests the club no longer views Bennett as the franchise’s future.

When will Matthew Stafford retire?

Following Simpson’s selection, the unavoidable question is: when will Matthew Stafford retire? While he remains an elite, reigning MVP quarterback, his history of injuries may lead him to consider an earlier retirement.

As of today, Stafford fully intends to play the 2026 season. Reports suggest he is open to mentoring Simpson for at least one year, potentially retiring after the upcoming campaign concludes.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Rams’ general manager Les Snead considers Ty Simpson a first-round prospect. The Rams hold the 13th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. They could trade down to get him later in the round, maybe with a team that doesn’t have a first-round pick, for instance.

The fact is that Simpson has been a very talked-about prospect. Some say he is NFL-ready, others question how high is his ceiling. Hence, his draft projections are all over the place. Now, the Rams emerge as a possible suitor.

Jimmy Garoppolo might not come back

The Rams were confident in having Jimmy Garoppolo as their QB2 behind Matthew Stafford. However, recent reports state that Garoppolo, who is now a free agent, might be considering retirement instead of coming back to the Rams.

Garoppolo is a 34-year-old player, and while he has been a backup for big chunks of his career, he’s also been a franchise quarterback with Super Bowl trips. In fact, he has a great record to his name, with 43 wins to only 21 losses. Still, he has suffered many injuries that have hampered his otherwise effective career.

McVay must pay attention to the position

Matthew Stafford just won MVP and is coming back. However, he is on borrowed time. The fact is that McVay must find an heir to Stafford and he hasn’t really addressed it in previous drafts. Maybe this could be the one.

Stafford could mentor Simpson while still playing, and then when he calls it a career, let Simpson rip it for McVay and the Rams. The Rams are a very clever team, so this year could bring a lot of surprises.

According to scouts, Ty Simpson is the second-best quarterback prospect in this class, trailing only Fernando Mendoza. Simpson is confident in his talent but acknowledges that he does not control his ultimate draft fate.

On Wednesday, Simpson stated that he has done all he can to persuade teams to draft him on Day 1. While he is certain of his abilities, several factors—including his limited 15-game starting experience—could cause him to slide into the second round.

“It’s out of my control,” Simpson said about being drafted on Day 1, via NFL Media. “I’ve done what I can do. I put my best foot forward, and whatever happens, happens. I’m at peace with it. I’m understanding that anything could happen. Just really excited to get started.”

Could the Rams draft Ty Simpson?

This week, reports emerged that Jimmy Garoppolo is considering retirement. Amid this uncertainty, the Rams have emerged as a strong contender to land a top-tier quarterback prospect.

With Matthew Stafford potentially retiring after the 2026 season—following his 2025 NFL MVP campaign—the Rams desperately need a smooth transition plan. This raises the question: Is it worth using their No. 13 overall pick on a new signal-caller?

The Rams may wait to see how the first 12 picks develop before deciding on Simpson. If he is available at No. 13 and other targets are off the board, it could be a strategic move to draft him and allow him to develop behind Stafford for a year.

Teams in need of a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft

Entering draft week, several clubs are in the market for a quarterback, though not all are expected to select one on Day 1. Los Angeles could now be in need of a signal-caller due to Garoppolo’s retirement.

As of today, the Raiders (who are locked in on Fernando Mendoza), Jets, Cardinals, Saints, Dolphins, and Rams are the teams most likely to use a high-round pick on a signal-caller.

According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the Cardinals still have the third pick and Ty Simpson might be the answer at quarterback. However, Florio also states that the Cardinals “could, in theory, trade down and take Simpson in a lower spot. And there could be a team that sufficiently covets running back Jeremiyah Love to try to leapfrog the Titans at No. 4.”

With Jacoby Brissett no-showing the Cardinals workout due to his contract dispute, the Cardinals might go ahead and use their draft power to bring a young, big-time prospect like Simpson.

Ty Simpson’s draft spot is a mystery

While he is unarguably the second-best quarterback in this draft, his actual drafting spot is not clear at all. While many regard him as a first-round pick, it will all depend on how teams address their needs, or whether they want the best player available.

That’s why Florio doesn’t rule out the possibility of the team trading down. However, what’s clear is that the Cardinals might have a new priority given the Brissett situation. The other QB that could start for them is Gardner Minshew, who is recovering from a knee injury.

Is Ty Simpson NFL ready?

Viewed as a boom-or-bust player, Ty Simpson is for some analysts like Chase Daniel the most pro-ready QB in the draft. However, it’s not like Simpson has the ceiling of Fernando Mendoza, for instance.

Still, many praise his IQ, his ability to dissect defense’s weaknesses in the film room all the way to the field, and his accuracy. It also helps that Simpson played in an NFL-esque system like Alabama.

Last year, the Browns drafted both Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. The latter seems to be the frontrunner for the QB1 job, but he faces a fierce battle against veteran Deshaun Watson for the starting role.

Nevertheless, an intriguing third option has emerged: drafting another quarterback. Andrew Berry, the team’s general manager, was questioned about Ty Simpson and the chances of the Browns drafting him; he notably did not close the door on the Alabama standout’s arrival.

“I’d say I don’t love dealing in hypotheticals,” Berry said. “So, I guess I’d say this, if we add a quarterback, we have a lot of love for the quarterbacks that are in the room, that’s probably the first thing. So that decision would be made independently of anything that we add to the room.”

The Browns are desperate for a franchise quarterback

The biggest struggle in Browns’ history has been finding a true franchise quarterback. It appears that mission is still active, despite the current depth at the position.

When Cleveland acquired Deshaun Watson from the Texans via trade, he was expected to be the elite signal-caller the club had been waiting for. However, off-field issues and recurring injuries have prevented him from living up to those high expectations.

Now, they have two young quarterbacks in Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. While Sanders appears to be the leader in the race, the truth is that he had an underwhelming rookie season, despite his controversial Pro Bowl selection.

The Browns are not entirely committed to their No. 6 overall pick

For many scouts, this draft class is considered one of the weaker groups in recent years. For that reason, many believe the Browns could be open to trading down if the right offer arrives.

There is no doubt that Cleveland has significant work to do on the roster. However, given the perceived lack of “can’t-miss” prospects in this class, the AFC North club might focus on acquiring draft capital for 2027 and seeking the best players available via free agency or trade.

On Tuesday, reports emerged that the Jets have moved on from Simpson. This shift has created a ripple effect, positioning the quarterback to find another top suitor for his services.

Just a day later, the Cardinals hosted Simpson for a pre-draft visit, per ESPN’s Field Yates. Following Kyler Murray’s departure to the Vikings, the NFC West club is searching for his successor.

The Cardinals’ need for a quarterback outweighs the Jets’—for now

In the 2026 NFL Draft, the top three selecting teams in the first round all face questions at quarterback. With the Raiders likely targeting Fernando Mendoza at No. 1, the Jets and Cardinals are left with difficult decisions.

New York is set to roll with Geno Smith in 2026, but Arizona’s situation is less settled. While they have Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew as veteran options, neither is regarded as a long-term solution for the upcoming season.

The Cardinals could use the No. 3 overall pick on a quarterback. However, they could also evaluate the options currently on their roster to see if the 2027 draft class offers a better opportunity to select the franchise quarterback that Murray was meant to be.

Ty Simpson or Garrett Nussmeier?

With Fernando Mendoza as the potential No. 1 overall pick, other QB-needy teams face a tough choice. As of today, there appear to be only two other solid options for an early-round selection.

For many scouts, Ty Simpson is the second-best quarterback in the 2026 class. Nevertheless, Garrett Nussmeier has also been highly graded; however, an abdominal injury suffered in 2025 has left teams with concerns regarding the former LSU standout’s durability.

According to NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah, the Jets will select their quarterback of the future in the 2027 NFL Draft. Such a report puts New York out of the race for Simpson, who could be drafted in the first round of the upcoming draft.

There’s a chance Simpson falls to the second round, giving the Jets another opportunity to draft him, but it feels unlikely on both counts. First, that Simpson—whose stock has only been on the rise since the NFL Combine—makes it out of the first round. Second, that the Jets would take him with their 33rd or 44th overall pick in the second round.

Anything can happen, but with Smith on a one-year contract and a stacked quarterback class coming up in 2027, the Jets could kick the can down the road. Fans in New York have waited this long to see a franchise quarterback, they can surely wait one more season.

Jets’ draft picks in 2026

The New York Jets own nine selections in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Barring a trade, the Jets will pick twice on Day 1. Gang Green holds the No. 2 and No. 16 overall selections. Moreover, the Jets’ draft capital includes two Day 2 picks (No. 33 and 44) and five Day 3 selections: 103rd, 140th, 179th, 228th, and 242nd.

QBs in 2027 class

It’s still early to tell, and much can change throughout the 2026 college football season, but the 2027 quarterback class could feature some franchise-saving candidates for the Jets and several other NFL organizations. Every struggling team in the league is already setting high expectations for future draft prospects, and there are several names that have fans excited.

Talents such as Arch Manning, Julian Sayin, Dante Moore, Trinidad Chambliss, LaNorris Sellers, Sam Leavitt, and others are among the standout names expected to declare for the 2027 NFL Draft. Thus, the Jets may be fine with waiting one more season while rolling with Geno Smith as QB1 in 2026.