The Los Angeles Rams faced backlash for selecting quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 13 pick in the NFL Draft, despite having Matthew Stafford as their starting QB. Coach Sean McVay's lukewarm response has fueled speculation about the decision.
The Los Angeles Rams have received criticism for using the No. 13 pick to draft quarterback Ty Simpson.
Apr 24, 2026; Inglewood, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams first-round draft pick Ty Simpson speaks to media during a press conference at Code Next at Hollywood Park. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
The Rams already have a starting quarterback in reigning NFL Most Valuable Player Matthew Stafford and could have used the pick to draft a player that is ready to contribute to winning a Super Bowl now like wide receiver Makai Lemon.
During a press conference after the NFL Draft, Rams head coach Sean McVay did not seem enthusiastic about the decision to draft Simpson, leading some to believe that McVay was not happy with the franchise’s selection.
McVay later said he was trying to be respectful towards Stafford and his role as the team’s starting quarterback.
On Saturday, Simpson was back with the Rams for WalkUnitedLA’s fundraising event at Hollywood Park. He told reporters that he had not seen the press conference from draft night but feels like McVay has been welcoming and shown his excitement to work with him.
“I didn’t really see it,” Simpson said about the draft night press conference, per Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times.
“I know one thing though,” Simpson added. “I know coach McVay has been in contact and he’s super fired up. And I’m super excited. I know that I couldn’t have asked for a better situation, not only with the best player in the league in front of me but the best coach in the league at the helm.”
Simpson also expressed his excitement to start playing with the Rams and said he is ready to do whatever the team needs him to do.
The Rams drafted Ty Simpson to add depth at quarterback, despite already having Matthew Stafford as their starter.
Critics argue that the Rams should have used the No. 13 pick on a player who could contribute immediately, like wide receiver Makai Lemon.
Sean McVay's response during the press conference suggested he was not enthusiastic about the decision to draft Simpson.
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“I just know they called my name on the 13th pick — and, sign me up, I was going to Los Angeles,” Simpson said, per Klein. “I don’t really get into all that. … I just have to make sure I do whatever my process is, and make sure that I do whatever the team needs me to do.”
Photo Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
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