Ty Simpson’s Draft Decision Under Fire

Rams’ High Draft Pick in Question

The LA Rams selected Ty Simpson in the opening rounds, betting on his potential to eventually replace MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford. However, criticism has mounted as the rookie struggles to outshine third‑stringer Stetson Bennett during training camp. Some analysts now argue that the Rams overreached, putting a premium on a player who may never rise above the bench.

The debate intensified after former draft scout Daniel Kelly called Simpson a misstep, saying the quarterback “never belonged in the first‑ or second‑round conversation.” Kelly’s remarks echo Washington Commanders GM Scot McCloughan, who described the Alabama signal‑caller as over‑drafted and likened him to proven backups J.J. McCarthy and Mac Jones.

Simpson’s Camp Struggles

Reports from Rams training camp show Simpson has yet to separate himself from Stetson Bennett, the veteran third‑stringer. While Bennett has shown improvement in recent drills, he still falls short of the standard expected for a franchise quarterback. No rookie has truly stood out in OTAs or mini‑camp so far, keeping the competition tight.

Simpson was brought in as a learning tool behind Stafford, with the plan to absorb the offense before any meaningful playing time. He only began starting his final season at Alabama, where he learned from Jalen Milroe and Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, suggesting a patient development path.

Expert Views Paint a Skeptical Picture

Analysts point to Simpson’s limited experience and the current camp performance as red flags. They note that his resume—primarily as a backup at Alabama—does not match the high draft capital invested by Los Angeles. The chorus of doubt now includes former scouts and current front‑office personnel who question the Rams’ quarterback timeline.

Despite the skepticism, Simpson remains focused on his role as a developmental piece. His ability to contribute to the Alabama offense last season offers a sliver of optimism, but the immediate outlook leans toward a supporting quarterback role rather than an early‑year starter.

What It Means for LA’s Future

The Rams face a critical juncture: do they stick with their investment and continue grooming Simpson, or do they look to accelerate his integration into the starting lineup? The lack of standout rookies and persistent comparisons to backup‑type players suggest a longer road to relevance. Meanwhile, the organization will watch both Simpson’s progress and the broader quarterback market to decide their next moves.