Ty Simpson Doesn’t Flinch: Embracing the Rams QB Pressure
Rams Rookie Quarterback Ty Simpson Set for NFL Preseason Debut
The Big News: A First-Round Pick Gets His First Shot
The Los Angeles Rams surprised a lot of people when they picked Ty Simpson with the 13th overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. Now, after months of practice, the 23-year-old quarterback is finally going to play in a real NFL game — well, a preseason game, but it counts!
Important Point: Simpson only started 15 games at the University of Alabama before the Rams made him their future replacement for superstar quarterback Matthew Stafford.
What Happened So Far: From Draft Day to Game Day
1. Draft Night Shock
- Rams selected Simpson at No. 13 overall
- Many experts didn’t expect a QB this early
- Team views him as Stafford’s long-term successor
2. Summer Learning Curve
- Started training camp a little shaky
- Gradually "put the puzzle pieces together"
- Learned by watching Stafford and backup Stetson Bennett
3. Breakthrough Moments
- Began stepping up in the pocket confidently
- Completed tough throws across the middle
- Threw a touchdown pass during joint practice with the Dallas Cowboys
4. Teammates Take Notice
"His arm and the confidence that he’s throwing the ball with has definitely grown a ton."
— Puka Nacua, All-Pro Wide Receiver"You’ve certainly seen him go and make some throws and go and compete in a really cool way."
— Nate Scheelhaase, Offensive Coordinator
Game Day Details: Rams vs. Chiefs
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opponent | Kansas City Chiefs |
| Location | Arrowhead Stadium |
| Time | Saturday, 1:00 PM PDT |
| TV | CBS |
| Starter | Stetson Bennett (4th-year pro) |
| Simpson’s Role | Will play significant snaps |
Who’s Playing (and Who’s Not)
Suiting Up
- Ty Simpson (Rookie QB)
- Stetson Bennett (Starting QB)
- Max Klare (Rookie TE)
- Keagan Trost (Rookie OL)
- CJ Daniels (Rookie WR)
- Tim Keenan (Rookie DL)
Staying on the Sideline
- Matthew Stafford (Franchise QB)
- Puka Nacua (Star WR)
- Davante Adams (Star WR)
- Jordan Whittington (WR)
- Konata Mumpfield (WR)
Important Point: Coach Sean McVay never plays his starters in the preseason. This game is all about evaluating the backups and rookies!
What the Coaches Want to See
Coach McVay has a specific checklist for his young quarterbacks:
- Pre-snap command – Can they run the offense before the ball is snapped?
- Post-snap decision making – Do they make good choices under pressure?
- Mobility – Can they escape a collapsing pocket and make plays?
- Natural playmaking – McVay wants this to "occur naturally," not forced
The Veteran Wisdom: Stafford’s Advice
Simpson isn’t figuring this out alone. Matthew Stafford — the guy he’s eventually replacing — has been a mentor.
"The best advice he gave me was, ‘Just go let it rip. It’s nothing that you haven’t done before.’"
— Ty Simpson, on Stafford’s counsel
Simple but powerful: Trust your preparation. Trust your talent. Just play football.
Simpson’s Mindset: Ready for the Moment
- Calls the opportunity "surreal"
- Acknowledges he’ll make mistakes
- Plans to learn instantly and not repeat errors
- Focused on being present and grateful rather than pressured
"There are going to be things that I mess up on. I’m going to learn from them and move on, and next week be able to learn from it and make sure it doesn’t happen again."
Why This Matters: The Big Picture
| Factor | Significance |
|---|---|
| Draft Capital | 13th overall = massive investment |
| Team Window | Rams favored to win Super Bowl LXI |
| QB Transition | Stafford is 37; succession planning is critical |
| Rookie Contract | 4+ years of cost-controlled QB play if he hits |
| Preseason Reps | Only live tackling he’ll see until (maybe) regular season |
Summary
Ty Simpson, the Rams’ 13th overall pick, makes his preseason debut Saturday against the Chiefs. After a summer of growth — noticed by stars like Puka Nacua and coaches like Nate Scheelhaase — he’ll get his first taste of live NFL contact. Stetson Bennett starts, but Simpson will play plenty. With Stafford mentoring him and McVay evaluating, this is Step 1 of a multi-year plan to find the next franchise quarterback. Simpson’s approach? Stay present, let it rip, and learn fast.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Why did the Rams draft a QB so high if they have Matthew Stafford?
Stafford is 37 and entering the final phase of his career. The Rams want a ready-made successor before they need one — not after.
Is Simpson expected to start this season?
No. Stafford is the clear starter. Simpson is developing for 2027 and beyond — unless injury forces action sooner.
What’s the difference between preseason and regular season?
Preseason games don’t count in standings. Starters rarely play. It’s for evaluation, not winning. But the hitting is real!
Who is Stetson Bennett and why is he starting?
A 4th-year backup who won two national titles at Georgia. With Stafford limited in camp, Bennett got first-team reps and earned the preseason start.
How can I watch Simpson’s debut?
Saturday at 1:00 PM PDT on CBS — Rams at Chiefs from Arrowhead Stadium.