Rams Select Alabama QB Ty Simpson at No. 13 in 2026 NFL Draft

The Los Angeles Rams selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday evening in Pittsburgh.

The selection positions Simpson as a potential long-term successor to current starting quarterback Matthew Stafford, who is entering his 18th season and is in the final year of his contract.

Draft Details

The Rams used their first-round pick, the 13th overall selection, to draft Simpson. He is the first quarterback selected in the first round by the Rams since Jared Goff in 2016. Simpson was projected by some analysts to be a second-round pick before the draft.

Player Background and Evaluation

Simpson started 15 games during his college career at Alabama. Reports prior to the draft noted concerns regarding his size (6'1", under 200 pounds) and durability issues, including gastritis, elbow bursitis, a lower back issue, and a cracked rib.

The Rams evaluated Simpson's performance in RPO-based offenses, focusing on over 60 snaps where he executed play-action passes, a component of the Rams' offensive system.

Team Communication and Reactions

Pre-Draft Contact

Simpson initially stated he had only a brief interaction with Rams scouts at Alabama's Pro Day and no direct communication with head coach Sean McVay or general manager Les Snead prior to the draft. On Monday following the draft, Simpson disclosed that he had a private, extended meeting with McVay before the draft. Simpson stated the meeting was kept confidential to prevent other teams from trading ahead of the Rams to select him.

McVay's Demeanor

During a joint press conference with Snead after the selection, McVay appeared subdued. Journalists and observers described his demeanor as "grumpy" or lacking enthusiasm.

McVay later acknowledged his demeanor, stating it was unrelated to the pick and was intended to show respect to Stafford, not to signal dissatisfaction with the selection. He emphasized that the decision was collaborative and that the team is excited to add Simpson.

Stafford's Reaction

McVay stated that he spoke with Stafford prior to the draft to inform him of the decision. McVay reported that Stafford responded professionally and supportively, saying, "He responded exactly the way I would want to. He's going to put his arm around this guy." McVay added that Stafford said, "I understand it."

Simpson's Reaction

Simpson expressed surprise at being selected by the Rams and said he is eager to learn from Stafford, whom he described as "one of the greatest of all time."

Statements from Leadership

General Manager Les Snead: "The floor is first round for Ty Simpson."

• Snead stated that he and McVay collaborated on the decision. He described the team's vision as maximizing their time with Stafford and competing for championships. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Snead was "convicted" about Simpson being a franchise quarterback.

Head Coach Sean McVay: "We remain Stafford's team. Simpson's opportunity will come on Matthew's terms."

• McVay expressed confidence in Simpson's abilities, describing him as having good timing and rhythm. He said Simpson will compete with Stetson Bennett for the backup role.

Ty Simpson: "McVay is a quarterback genius. I watched Stafford's film constantly at Alabama."

• Simpson said he looked forward to learning from Stafford and described McVay as a "quarterback genius."

Roster Implications

The Rams currently have veterans Matthew Stafford (age 38) and Stetson Bennett on the roster. Jimmy Garoppolo, Stafford's backup for the past two seasons, is a free agent and considering retirement.

The selection of Simpson likely reduces the chance of the Rams re-signing Garoppolo. McVay stated that having Simpson allows the team to manage Stafford's workload during practice.

Remaining Draft Capital

The Rams have six remaining selections in the 2026 draft, including:

• 61st overall pick (second round)
• 93rd overall pick (third round)