Les Snead addresses theory that Sean McVay wasn't excited about Ty Simpson

Sean McVay generated a lot of buzz on Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft Thursday night, and not because he was over the moon about the Ty Simpson selection. In fact, it was just the opposite.

His lack of excitement during the Rams’ post-draft press conference caught the attention of everyone who watched it, from beat reporters in attendance to fans streaming the video online.

It was so noticeable that Les Snead was asked about it on Friday morning during an appearance on ESPN LA. He addressed the theory that he and McVay weren’t on the same page about Simpson, saying they “always work together in these types of decisions” and are “in lockstep.”

“At the end of the day, Sean and I are going to always work together in these types of decisions,” Snead said. “Last night was, let’s call it, a long – I wouldn’t call it long. The draft was a little bit shorter, so I think it went faster. But there was a lot that was going on into maneuvering that draft. We’re in lockstep, we work together, we’re collaborative, it’s him and I partnering to try to do the best for the Rams.”

Multiple reporters have since come out and indicated that McVay’s subdued reaction was out of respect for Matthew Stafford, the guy Los Angeles drafted Simpson to replace eventually.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that multiple team sources believe McVay felt the need to downplay the pick to accentuate his confidence in Stafford.

Multiple team sources said they believe McVay might have felt the need to downplay the pick in order to accentuate his confidence in Stafford.

"He will be cautious and protective of Matt, and rightfully so," a team source said. "I think Sean is excited for the pick. The appreciation for the tape was the biggest thing."

NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo also said McVay has to “walk the line” of being on board with the pick, while also making sure Stafford knows this is still his team – something McVay said flatly on Thursday.