The Rams' selection of Ty Simpson 13th overall indicates a shift in their future strategy, even with Matthew Stafford still leading. Coach Sean McVay emphasizes a balance between winning now and planning for the future.
Key points
Rams selected Ty Simpson 13th overall
Matthew Stafford remains the starting quarterback
Sean McVay emphasizes a dual focus on present and future
Stafford had a standout season with 4,707 yards and 46 touchdowns
Team is preparing for Stafford's eventual decline
Mentioned in this story
Matthew StaffordTy SimpsonSean McVay
Los Angeles Rams
Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
Thereâs no question the Rams still belong to Matthew Stafford, but picking Ty Simpson 13th overall has definitely shifted how they think about the future.
Sean McVay has stressed that the Rams are trying to win now while also thinking ahead, balancing both the present and future in their decision-making. This approach shows it wasnât just about adding depth behind Stafford â it was also about not getting boxed in by his age and year-to-year status.
That thinking still applies even after everything Stafford accomplished last season. He threw for 4,707 yards, 46 touchdowns and eight interceptions, won MVP, and pushed Los Angeles to the NFC Championship Game. But he turned 38 this February, and teams canât afford to wait until theyâre forced into a decision.
Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
The Rams have to balance two timelines at once
Thatâs what makes the Simpson pick so justifiable, even if it seems like a high price. Rather than using this draft to simply address immediate needs, Los Angeles invested serious draft capital in a position that becomes much harder to fix when youâre desperate.
McVay also pointed out that keeping Stafford in the loop was a priority throughout. That detail shouldnât be overlooked. The Rams arenât looking to spark any sort of quarterback dramaâtheyâre trying to head off a crisis before it starts.
Q&A
How does Ty Simpson's selection impact the Rams' future plans?
Ty Simpson's selection signals the Rams' intent to prepare for life after Matthew Stafford, ensuring they are not solely dependent on his performance as he ages.
What were Matthew Stafford's statistics last season?
Last season, Matthew Stafford threw for 4,707 yards, 46 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, earning him the MVP award.
What is Sean McVay's approach to the Rams' roster strategy?
Sean McVay aims to balance immediate success with future planning, ensuring the team remains competitive while preparing for Stafford's eventual replacement.
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What this means for 2026
Thereâs a good chance Simpson doesnât take any meaningful snaps in the short term. He still needs to earn the backup job ahead of Stetson Bennett. But whatâs clear is that the Rams see enough potential in Simpson to start planning for life after Stafford now, rather than waiting until it becomes a pressing issue.
This pick changes how every decision is viewed moving forward, from contract talks with Stafford to roster construction and even how patient the team can afford to be at quarterback. Simpson doesnât need to play immediately to shift the teamâs timeline â simply selecting him has already done that.