The LA Rams made one of the most surprising moves of the 2026 NFL draft by selecting Ty Simpson at No. 13 in the first round. It signaled a long-term transition plan from Matthew Stafford.
The move initially drew attention due to a viral moment showing Rams coach Sean McVay with a frustrated body language, which led to speculation about internal disagreement. However, reports suggested that LA thoroughly evaluated the Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback, and that the decision was part of a more deliberate strategy.
Simpson provided insight on Monday into his predraft interactions with the Rams. He revealed that he and McVay spent hours together ahead of the draft.
“We tried to keep this under wraps as long as we could,” Simpson said, via ESPN Radio. “It was something to where I knew they were interested, but they wanted to make it private and didn’t want people to know that they were interested.
Looking to predict NFL playoff Scenarios? Try our NFL Playoff Predictor for real-time simulations and stay ahead of the game!
“So, I had some secret meetings with coach McVay, and I just was trying to be on script and do what everybody told me and not to tell anybody.”
Earlier speculations suggested that LA general manager Les Snead may have pushed for Simpson’s selection due to a relationship with the quarterback and his family. However the Alabama star’s revelation indicated that the decision was more coordinated than initially believed.
Snead has a long-standing professional relationship with Ty’s father, UT Martin coach Jason Simpson. Snead reportedly assured the family months ahead of the 2026 NFL draft that the quarterback was a first-round prospect.
Lack of trade interest prevented Rams from moving down for Ty Simpson
The Rams’ initial plan was to trade down before making a first-round selection. according to ESPN insider Adam Schefter on Monday. He revealed that the team hoped to move back while collecting additional picks and still landing Ty Simpson. However, the plan fell through when no trade offers came in.
“Now, the Rams were going to try to trade back,” Schefter said on “The Adam Schefter Podcast.” That was the plan. Hopefully, move back to, say Detroit at 17, get some extra picks and take Ty Simpson there. When their turn on the clock came, they didn’t get any calls. They got no offers. So they were forced to take Ty Simpson at that spot.”
Simpson boosted his draft stock with a productive 2025 season with Alabama (11-4, 7-1 Southeastern Conference). He finished with 3,567 passing yards and 28 touchdowns, leading the program to a College Football Playoff quarterfinal appearance.
However, draft projections placed him in the latter part of the first round, contributing to the perception that his selection at No. 13 came earlier than expected.
Edited by Victor Ramon Galvez
You must be logged in to post a comment Login