Rams pick Ty Simpson 13th in NFL Draft after QB surprise

The Rams chose Ty Simpson with the 13th pick, making him the second QB taken, after Fernando Mendoza. This was a surprise pick for many.
By Newsroom | Sports, NFL |

SHOCKER IN THE FIRST ROUND AS RAMS TAKE ALABAMA QB

The Los Angeles Rams snagged Ty Simpson, quarterback out of Alabama, with the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. This move defied expectations, placing Simpson as the second quarterback off the board after Fernando Mendoza was selected first. Simpson's selection comes as a surprise, given his perceived need for development and a potential "redshirt year" in the NFL.

NFL draft 2026: Rams make shock pick of QB Ty Simpson at No 13 as Mendoza goes No 1 – live - 1

Simpson's collegiate career was marked by a patient rise through the ranks, culminating in a starting role last season. During his lone year as a starter, he put up 3,567 passing yards and 28 touchdowns, throwing only five interceptions. However, his performance reportedly tapered off in the latter half of the season, a detail that apparently did not deter the Rams' decision-makers. He is expected to slot in behind veteran Matthew Stafford as the No. 2 quarterback, with Stetson Bennett also on the depth chart.

Read More: Titans draft Carnell Tate #4 to boost offense for Jordan Ward

NFL draft 2026: Rams make shock pick of QB Ty Simpson at No 13 as Mendoza goes No 1 – live - 2

OTHER PICKS AND PRE-DRAFT NOISE

The draft landscape saw other notable selections and pre-draft discussions. Fernando Mendoza was the first quarterback taken, going to the Las Vegas Raiders. Whispers around Simpson and the Rams had intensified leading up to the draft, with some reports suggesting General Manager Les Snead had indicated to Simpson's father that he was a first-round talent.

Simpson was generally viewed as the second-best quarterback in this draft class, behind Mendoza. Oddsmakers had the Rams among the favorites to select him. There were also discussions about other players, including Caleb Downs, a safety from Notre Dame, and various offensive linemen and defensive players, highlighting the diverse needs and strategies teams were employing.

BACKGROUND ON TY SIMPSON

Ty Simpson’s journey to the NFL draft involved a four-year tenure at Alabama, where he turned 23 years old. His standout season as a starter, though showing a mid-season slump, showcased his potential. His father's connection to the Rams organization, specifically discussions with Les Snead, appears to have played a role in the team's interest. Simpson is not widely considered the most NFL-ready quarterback available, with a need for refinement evident.

Read More: Raiders pick QB Fernando Mendoza first overall in 2026 NFL Draft

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the Rams pick Ty Simpson 13th in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Los Angeles Rams surprised many by selecting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick. This move placed him as the second quarterback taken in the draft, after Fernando Mendoza.
Q: What are Ty Simpson's stats from his college career?
In his lone season as a starter at Alabama, Ty Simpson threw for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns, with only five interceptions. His performance reportedly slowed in the second half of the season.
Q: Who will Ty Simpson play behind on the Rams?
Ty Simpson is expected to be the second-string quarterback for the Rams, behind veteran Matthew Stafford. Stetson Bennett is also on the team's depth chart.
Q: Was Ty Simpson a well-known prospect before the draft?
While Ty Simpson was seen as the second-best quarterback in the draft class, he was considered to need development. Some reports indicated General Manager Les Snead had spoken with Simpson's father about his first-round potential.
Q: Who did the Las Vegas Raiders pick first in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Las Vegas Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, making him the first quarterback off the board.