Mike Tannenbaum wants to fight critics of Ty Simpson Rams pick

TL;DR

Mike Tannenbaum defends the Los Angeles Rams' decision to select Ty Simpson as their first-round pick, despite mixed reactions. Critics argue that choosing a backup quarterback may hinder the team's immediate success.

Key points

Mike Tannenbaum defends Ty Simpson's selection by the Rams
Ty Simpson was picked 13th overall in the NFL Draft
The pick has received mixed reactions from analysts and fans
Critics argue it may hurt the Rams' immediate success
Sean McVay's reaction indicates internal disagreement on the pick

Mentioned in this story

Mike TannenbaumMatthew StaffordDan Orlovsky

Ty SimpsonNFL DraftLos Angeles Rams

Credit: ESPN

Move over Dan Orlovsky, Mike Tannenbaum is here to plant his flag as the biggest cheerleader of the Los Angeles Rams shocking the world and picking Ty Simpson with their first round selection in the NFL Draft.

The Rams picking Simpson at #13 overall was the most polarizing pick in Thursday night’s first round. While Dan Orlovsky celebrated his vindication after hyping Simpson’s pro prospects for months, it only seemed fitting that he would become the heir apparent to his close, personal friend Matthew Stafford. While the pick may have been a reach, it gives the Rams a clear succession plan at the position.

However, it also spurned an opportunity to provide Stafford and the Rams with a player who could contribute right away on a team that was in the NFC Championship game just last season. With Stafford at the helm, the Rams’ Super Bowl window isn’t going to last forever. So spending a first rounder on a backup quarterback feels like a luxury choice that could hurt the team in the near-term. And Sean McVay’s viral reaction to the pick has led many to assume that the Ty Simpson choice was far from a unanimous sentiment in the Rams draft room.

Of course, this makes perfect debate fodder for ESPN, who had been driving the Ty Simpson hype train as the draft’s major story. That looks like it will continue throughout much of the offseason with Tannenbaum pouring even more gasoline on the fire with a take so hot that he is willing to get physical over it.

Q&A

Why did the Rams choose Ty Simpson with their first-round pick?

The Rams selected Ty Simpson to establish a succession plan for quarterback Matthew Stafford, despite concerns about the pick being a reach.

What were the reactions to the Rams' pick of Ty Simpson?

The pick was polarizing, with some, like Dan Orlovsky, celebrating it, while others criticized it as a luxury choice that could hurt the team's chances in the near-term.

How does Ty Simpson's selection impact Matthew Stafford's future?

Ty Simpson's selection indicates the Rams' intention to prepare for life after Matthew Stafford, but it raises questions about immediate team needs.

What was Sean McVay's reaction to the Ty Simpson pick?

Sean McVay's reaction to the pick suggested that there may not have been unanimous support for the decision within the Rams' draft room.