Rams Inform Matthew Stafford Early About Ty Simpson Draft Selection

The Los Angeles Rams made one of the more surprising moves of the 2026 NFL Draft by selecting quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick. The decision immediately drew attention across the league due to its potential implications for the team’s quarterback future.

At the center of that discussion is veteran signal-caller Matthew Stafford, the reigning NFL MVP, who remains the leader of a Rams offense that reached the NFC Championship Game the previous season.

Given Stafford’s current form and status within the franchise, the selection of a young quarterback raised questions about timing and communication within the organization.

However, reporting indicates that the Rams made efforts to ensure transparency with their veteran leaders before making the move official.

1. Rams Communicate Draft Plan In Advance

According to league reporting, the Rams informed both Matthew Stafford and backup quarterback Stetson Bennett earlier in the day that Ty Simpson was their intended selection. The communication occurred during the afternoon before the draft pick was announced, giving both quarterbacks advance notice of the organization’s decision. The move was presented as a courtesy rather than a surprise, allowing the team’s quarterback room to process the transition internally before it became public. Analysts noted that while quarterback selections of this nature can create tension, the Rams’ approach helped minimize potential disruption.

2. Stafford Family Extends Early Welcome

Following the draft selection, Simpson revealed that he received a personal message from Stafford’s wife, Kelly Stafford, welcoming him to Los Angeles. The message, delivered through social media, encouraged him to reach out if he or his family needed support during his transition to the NFL. The gesture reflected a broader culture within the Rams organization, which has emphasized player integration and mentorship under its veteran leadership structure. For Simpson, the outreach added a personal dimension to his introduction into the league and the franchise.

3. Simpson Enters A Developing Quarterback Picture

Simpson arrives in Los Angeles following a strong collegiate career at the Alabama Crimson Tide, where he posted 3,567 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and only five interceptions in the 2025 season. He also contributed on the ground and helped guide Alabama to an 11–4 record and a College Football Playoff appearance, further elevating his draft profile. Despite his production, Simpson’s role with the Rams remains uncertain. With Stafford still performing at an elite level, immediate playing time is not guaranteed. Instead, Simpson is expected to develop within the system, positioning himself as a potential long-term option while the team continues to compete in the present.