The Rams' selection of QB Ty Simpson at No. 13 is seen as a strategy to allow the team to remain aggressive in trading future first-round picks without the immediate necessity of finding a successor for QB Matthew Stafford. General Manager Les Snead highlighted the flexibility the pick provides, allowing the Rams to focus on enhancing the roster around Stafford for immediate Super Bowl contention. Over the past decade, the Rams have frequently traded away their first-round picks, making Simpson just the second first-round selection since head coach Sean McVay's arrival in 2017.

By the Numbers
  • Ty Simpson's college record as a starter at Alabama was 11-4 over 15 games.
  • In 2025, Matthew Stafford threw for 4,707 yards with 46 touchdowns and 8 interceptions.
State of Play
  • The Rams have traded away their first-round pick in nine of the last ten years.
  • Stafford's current contract includes two more years at $27 million and $31 million, following a recent rework.
What's Next

With Simpson on board, the Rams are likely to focus on acquiring talent that can contribute immediately to the team, potentially through trades or later draft picks, while keeping Stafford's Super Bowl window open for another season.

Bottom Line

The Rams aim to balance the urgency of winning now with Stafford while simultaneously planning for the future, a strategy that hinges on Simpson鈥檚 potential to allow aggressive roster moves without quarterback succession worries.