The Los Angeles Rams are reportedly focusing on Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson as a potential successor to Matthew Stafford. With Stafford aging, the team appears to be looking for a future franchise player. This interest comes as Simpson prepares to enter the NFL Draft, with early projections placing him as a first-round selection.
Simpson's College Career and Draft Eligibility
Ty Simpson spent four seasons at the University of Alabama, concluding his collegiate career as the team's starting quarterback. He officially declared for the NFL Draft on January 7, 2026, forgoing his final year of eligibility. During his time with the Crimson Tide, Simpson accumulated 3,567 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and five interceptions in his final season. He also led Alabama to the College Football Playoff in the 2025 season.
Rams' Reported Interest
Multiple reports indicate that the Los Angeles Rams are seriously considering Simpson. ESPN's Louis Riddick has noted Simpson's skillset and makeup as aligning with what the Rams are seeking. The possibility exists that the Rams might select a quarterback in the first round to prepare for the eventual departure of Matthew Stafford. If this occurs, Simpson could have the opportunity to learn behind Stafford, a veteran quarterback, before taking on a starting role.
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Fan and Expert Reactions
News of the Rams' reported interest has generated varied reactions. Some fans have dismissed the reports as a "smokescreen," while others view the potential pairing as a logical move for both Simpson and the Rams. The idea of Simpson spending time developing behind a seasoned player like Stafford is seen as beneficial for his career, allowing him to address areas needing improvement.
NFL Draft Projections for Ty Simpson
Early NFL draft projections suggest Ty Simpson is a strong first-round candidate. Some mock drafts have him selected as high as the No. 5 pick, with the Arizona Cardinals being mentioned as a potential suitor. His father, Jason Simpson, stated that his son received first-round grades from NFL general managers they contacted. Simpson's decision to enter the draft came after four years at Alabama, including one as the primary starter.
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| Team (Reported Interest/Mock Draft) | Projection | Source |
|—-|—-|—-|| Los Angeles Rams | Potential successor to Matthew Stafford | Talksport, Saturday Blitz || Arizona Cardinals | To replace Kyler Murray (No. 5 pick) | Heavy.com || Pittsburgh Steelers | No. 20 pick | Sports Illustrated |
Simpson's Statements on Future
Leading up to his decision, Simpson had remained reserved about his future. He stated in late December 2025 that he had not "really thought about it much" regarding his NFL draft prospects or returning to Alabama for another season. Despite having one year of college eligibility remaining, Simpson opted to turn professional.
Sources:
talksport.com: Reports on the Rams' interest in Ty Simpson as a potential heir to Matthew Stafford.https://talksport.com/nfl/3987714/ty-simpson-draft-rams-picks-matthew-stafford/
sportskeeda.com: Details fan reactions to Ty Simpson being linked to a team with a high valuation in the 2026 NFL Draft.https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-smokescreen-alert-100-chance-nfl-fans-react-ty-simpson-gets-linked-10-500-000-000-team-2026-draft
saturdayblitz.com: Discusses Ty Simpson drawing interest from a "surprise NFL team," identified as the Rams.https://saturdayblitz.com/ty-simpson-is-reportedly-drawing-interest-from-a-surprise-nfl-team
si.com: Confirms Ty Simpson's intention to declare for the NFL Draft after four seasons at Alabama.https://www.si.com/college-football/alabama-qb-ty-simpson-nfl-draft
tuscaloosanews.com: Reports on Ty Simpson's contemplation of entering the 2026 NFL Draft before Alabama's Rose Bowl appearance.https://www.tuscaloosanews.com/story/sports/college/football/2025/12/30/what-alabama-qb-ty-simpson-said-about-2026-nfl-draft/87927508007/
espn.com: Official confirmation of Alabama QB Ty Simpson entering the NFL draft, with notes on his collegiate performance and father's comments.https://www.espn.com/college-football/story//id/47539318/alabama-qb-ty-simpson-says-entering-nfl-draft
heavy.com: Provides NFL draft projections for Ty Simpson, suggesting he could replace an expensive star quarterback.https://heavy.com/sports/college-football/alabama-crimson-tide/ty-simpson-nfl-mock-draft-projections-prediction/