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Rams look to future: QB Ty Simpson selected No. 13 overall as heir apparent to Matthew Stafford
TL;DR
The Los Angeles Rams selected quarterback Ty Simpson as the No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, positioning him as the future successor to Matthew Stafford. This move reflects the Rams' strategy to secure a long-term option at quarterback despite Stafford's recent MVP performance.
Key points
- Los Angeles Rams selected Ty Simpson as No. 13 overall pick
- Simpson is viewed as the heir apparent to Matthew Stafford
- Stafford is signed only through next season
- Simpson's selection was unexpected in the early draft
- Rams are planning for the future despite Stafford's MVP season
Los Angeles RamsNFL Draft
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The Los Angeles Rams may have the defending NFL MVP under center right now, but that isn't stopping the organization from positioning itself for the future. They may have done just that with the selection of Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, who now heads to L.A. as the No. 13 overall pick at the 2026 NFL Draft.
This is quite the surprise to hear Simpson's name called this early in the draft. Leading up to Thursday's opening round, it wasn't a guarantee that he'd hear his name at any point in the first. If he were, it'd probably be in the back half. However, that changes here thanks to the Rams' belief in Simpson as the heir apparent to Stafford.
The selection makes sense despite the presence of Stafford, who is coming off an MVP season. The 38-year-old is only signed through next season and has flirted with retirement in the past, so the presence of Simpson as a future starter developing in the wings gives Sean McVay and company a long-term option at the position.
.@AlabamaFTBL QB Ty Simpson is headed to the @RamsNFL!
2026 NFL Draft starts on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/6fXeRjn08g— NFL (@NFL) April 24, 2026
The Rams called Stafford earlier on Thursday to tell him of their plans to select Simpson, so the veteran was in the know at the time he was selected, according to ESPN.
Q&A
Why did the Rams draft Ty Simpson at No. 13 overall?
The Rams drafted Ty Simpson to secure a future starting quarterback as Matthew Stafford, who is 38, may retire soon.
What does Ty Simpson's selection mean for Matthew Stafford's future?
Ty Simpson's selection indicates that the Rams are preparing for life after Stafford, who is only signed through next season.
How does Ty Simpson's draft position compare to expectations?
Ty Simpson was a surprise pick at No. 13, as many analysts expected him to be selected later in the first round.
