Rams invest 13th overall pick in Ty Simpson as he delivers strong preseason showing
Simpson’s performance underscores the strategic necessity of securing a reliable understudy for Matthew Stafford ahead of the 17-game regular season.
The Los Angeles Rams have begun to clarify the rationale behind selecting quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the draft, following a substantive display during their preseason matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. Simpson completed 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns over three quarters of play, providing head coach Sean McVay with tangible evidence of the rookie’s readiness for higher-level competition.
McVay highlighted Simpson’s ability to process defensive schemes and maintain possession under pressure. The coach noted that the quarterback effectively read the plays and utilised his mobility to keep the ball in play, particularly when primary receivers were unavailable. This capacity to attack the ball upfield and manage the pocket was central to the coaching staff’s positive assessment of the performance.
While the results were encouraging, McVay also identified specific areas for tactical refinement. He pointed to a third-down situation where the offence threw into the flat to tight end Max Klare due to man coverage, suggesting that Simpson needs to demonstrate greater progression within the pocket. The coach indicated that observing how the pocket holds up will be critical for the rookie’s continued development.
The decision to grant Simpson three full quarters of action appears driven by the limited nature of preseason opportunities for live repetitions. With the regular season comprising 17 games, the Rams view this period as a crucial window to evaluate their depth chart. Simpson’s development is not merely a long-term project for a post-Stafford era but an immediate requirement for insurance.
Matthew Stafford, the reigning MVP, remains the starting quarterback, but his history with back issues necessitates a capable backup. The current depth chart offers little alternative, with Stetson Bennett having recorded no regular-season snaps in three seasons. Simpson’s ability to step in effectively in the event of an injury to Stafford is now a more plausible scenario following his debut performance.
The Rams’ investment in Simpson signals a shift in their quarterback strategy, prioritising a rookie who can offer both immediate stability and future security. As the team prepares for the regular season, the focus will remain on whether the command and decision-making displayed against Kansas City can be sustained at a higher level of competition.
