Rams Eyeing Alabama QB Ty Simpson in NFL Draft

Controversial move could provide long-term stability at QB for Super Bowl contenders.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:41pm

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a quarterback's throwing motion broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, gold, and crimson red, capturing the complex decision-making and strategic planning behind the Rams' potential draft pick.The Rams' bold move to draft a young QB could reshape their Super Bowl aspirations.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Rams are considering drafting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, despite concerns about developing young QBs under head coach Sean McVay. Simpson's potential upside and fit in McVay's system make him an intriguing option, though the Rams would have to balance short-term Super Bowl aspirations with long-term planning at the position.

Why it matters

The Rams are in a unique position, having just reached the Super Bowl with veteran QB Matthew Stafford but facing questions about his long-term durability. Drafting a young QB like Simpson could provide stability at the position for the next 5+ years, but would be a risky move for a team focused on winning now.

The details

Despite a slight dip in production last season, Simpson is viewed as having the accuracy, composure, and awareness to thrive in McVay's offense. The Rams would likely bring him along slowly, allowing him to learn behind Stafford before eventually taking over as the starter. McVay's experience developing young QBs like Jared Goff gives the team confidence they can maximize Simpson's potential.

  • The 2024 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.
  • The Rams are coming off a Super Bowl appearance in the 2023 season.

The players

Ty Simpson

A standout quarterback prospect from the University of Alabama, known for his accuracy, composure, and awareness.

Matthew Stafford

The veteran quarterback of the Los Angeles Rams, who led the team to the Super Bowl in 2023 but has concerns about his long-term durability.

Sean McVay

The head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, known for his innovative offensive schemes and ability to develop young quarterbacks.

Les Snead

The general manager of the Los Angeles Rams, responsible for the team's roster decisions and long-term planning.

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What’s next

The Rams will evaluate their options at quarterback leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft, weighing the pros and cons of drafting a young QB like Ty Simpson versus continuing to build around the veteran Matthew Stafford.

The takeaway

The Rams' decision to potentially draft Ty Simpson in the first round highlights the delicate balance between short-term Super Bowl aspirations and long-term planning at the quarterback position. McVay's track record of developing young QBs gives the team confidence, but the risk of disrupting their current success is significant.