Los Angeles Rams draft quarterback Ty Simpson to succeed Matthew Stafford
The Los Angeles Rams have selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the NFL Draft to eventually succeed veteran Matthew Stafford.
The 38-year-old Stafford is entering his 18th professional season and recently claimed the league’s MVP award in 2025.
Despite his continued elite performance, the experienced signal-caller has not publicly confirmed how much longer he intends to play.
McVay communicates long-term vision
Head coach Sean McVay personally informed his current starter of the franchise’s decision on Thursday.
The organisation reportedly made it entirely clear that the rookie arrival is strictly preparation for whenever their Super Bowl-winning veteran decides to retire.
Speaking at the annual league meeting in March, the Rams boss acknowledged that the team must carefully balance both short-term ambitions and long-term stability under centre.
A standout career at Alabama
During his final collegiate campaign, the highly-rated prospect threw for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns while completing 64.5% of his passes.
The former Crimson Tide standout entered the evaluation process widely regarded as the second-best passer in his class.
He sat just behind Indiana prospect Fernando Mendoza, who was taken first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders earlier in the evening.
Rams execute revised strategy
Los Angeles had originally eyed their new offensive talent for the 29th selection before altering their overall draft capital.
That later first-round pick was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in early March as part of a blockbuster package to acquire All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie.
The incoming rookie now joins a quarterback room that also features Stetson Bennett IV.
The 2023 fourth-round selection has served as the third-string option in California over the past two seasons.