Rams draft Ty Simpson 13th overall, sparking debate

The Rams used their 13th pick on QB Ty Simpson. Some experts say it's a bad choice because they need players now, while others think it's smart for the future.
By Newsroom | American Football, NFL |

The Los Angeles Rams have selected quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, a move drawing sharp criticism and some guarded optimism from ESPN analysts and the wider football punditry. While some insiders see it as a shrewd move for long-term succession planning, others question the prioritization of a future project over immediate roster needs, particularly with veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford still on the roster.

The core of the debate centers on the Rams' decision to use a premium first-round selection on a quarterback when needs elsewhere on the roster were apparent. Many, including Mel Kiper, have publicly lambasted the pick, deeming the Rams among the draft's "biggest losers." The prevailing sentiment among these critics is that the team should have focused on players who could contribute immediately to maximize Stafford's remaining years and the team's current Super Bowl aspirations.

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"I want guys that can help me right now win a Super Bowl,” one analyst reportedly stated, encapsulating the view that immediate impact should have been prioritized over a developmental prospect. The fact that dynamic playmakers like wide receiver Makai Lemon and tight end Kenyon Sadiq were available at the same draft slot further fuels this argument, suggesting a missed opportunity to bolster the current roster.

However, not all experts are aligned against the Rams. Dan Orlovsky, a vocal supporter of Simpson's potential, believes the team made a smart strategic move. He argues that the Rams can address other needs, such as wide receiver, via trades, and that drafting Simpson aligns with a prudent approach to securing the team's future, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Stafford's continued availability beyond the upcoming season. General Manager Les Snead has also indicated that the team views Simpson as a long-term prospect, potentially a successor when Stafford eventually retires.

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Pre-Draft Communication and Team Strategy

Reports suggest that the Rams' engagement with Simpson leading up to the draft was minimal, with neither head coach Sean McVay nor GM Les Snead formally speaking with him until after the selection. This lack of direct interaction during the evaluation process has added another layer of scrutiny to the decision. Despite this, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero noted that Snead had previously communicated to Simpson's family that he was projected as a first-round pick.

The Rams reportedly fielded trade calls for the 13th pick, but ultimately decided to stay put and select Simpson. This decision comes after the Rams used their other first-round pick (originally 29th overall) to acquire cornerback Trent McDuffie, indicating a strategy of acquiring established talent in one area while investing in future potential at another. This approach is seen by some as a "lottery ticket" strategy, made more palatable by the earlier acquisition of McDuffie.

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Context of the Pick

The Rams' selection of Simpson at 13th overall is unusual, especially considering Matthew Stafford's recent MVP-winning season and his decision to return for his 18th year. The team's draft position itself is a consequence of a previous trade, meaning they are picking this high in the first round due to past transactions, a situation they likely hope to avoid in the future. The implication is that while taking an eventual successor was anticipated, the timing and cost of doing so remain points of contention among analysts.

There is also an acknowledgement that Ty Simpson himself has the potential to develop into a valuable player, with some early assessments suggesting he could be a "top talent." The organization's hope is that, in a few years, the selection will be vindicated, but for now, it stands as a controversial decision amidst immediate team ambitions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the Los Angeles Rams pick Ty Simpson 13th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Rams selected quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th pick. Some believe it's a move to plan for the future after veteran Matthew Stafford, while others question using a high pick on a player who may not help immediately.
Q: What do critics say about the Rams drafting Ty Simpson?
Critics like Mel Kiper believe the Rams made a mistake by picking Simpson so early. They think the team should have chosen a player who could help win games right now, especially with Matthew Stafford still playing.
Q: Who supports the Rams' decision to draft Ty Simpson?
Some analysts, like Dan Orlovsky, think it was a smart move. They believe the Rams can get other players through trades and that Simpson is a good choice for the team's long-term future.
Q: Did the Rams talk to Ty Simpson before drafting him?
Reports suggest that head coach Sean McVay and GM Les Snead did not speak with Ty Simpson until after he was selected. However, the GM had told Simpson's family he was expected to be a first-round pick.
Q: What other players were available when the Rams picked Ty Simpson?
When the Rams picked Ty Simpson at 13th overall, talented players like wide receiver Makai Lemon and tight end Kenyon Sadiq were still available. This has led some to say the Rams missed an opportunity to get a player who could help the team immediately.