Given that Matthew Stafford hasn’t played in a preseason game since before joining the Rams, it’s highly unlikely he’ll be on the field this Saturday against the Chiefs.
When it comes to discussions surrounding the team, Rams coach Sean McVay is more inclined to chat about Myles Garrett’s return to kickoffs than address Stafford’s potential availability for the preseason opener.
Stafford, the reigning NFL MVP, is crucial for the Rams’ Super Bowl aspirations, so the team is understandably keen to avoid any unnecessary risks over the next few weeks. McVay seems wise enough to understand this precaution.
Consequently, Stafford will remain wrapped in his preseason bubble, expected to emerge only for practice ahead of the game against the 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, on September 10.
Fans eager to witness Stafford lead the first-team offense will have to be patient.
However, that doesn’t mean they should feel let down.
His absence could instead provide an opportunity for a closer look at the quarterback that the Rams might consider as his eventual successor, which could be quite beneficial.
Ty Simpson, the No. 13 overall pick in this year’s draft, is expected to take on a significant role, both on Saturday and throughout the preseason. Stetson Bennett will also get a chance to show what he can do, whether against Kansas City or next week against the Saints.
Bennett, who has been learning under McVay for the past three years, appears to be the logical choice to serve as Stafford’s primary backup to start the season.
But it’s essential to differentiate between short-term depth charts and long-term planning.
Simpson represents the future.
That was the rationale behind using the No. 13 pick on him. The Rams didn’t acquire a backup quarterback at that level; they aimed for a succession strategy. Ideally, they’ll have enough time to develop Simpson properly before he takes over.
The longer they can postpone that transition, the better for everyone involved.
The Rams are hoping for a healthy, productive season from Stafford. If Simpson can hold off for a year, that would be great. Even better is if he can wait two. Every extra year with Stafford allows the Rams to genuinely chase another Super Bowl while giving Simpson the chance to develop without undue pressure.
But ultimately, the spotlight will land on Simpson.
When that time comes, his preparation will play a significant role in deciding if the Rams can transition into the next era of football without losing momentum after Stafford’s departure.
That’s why opportunities like this Saturday are so valuable.
Once the regular season kicks in, Simpson’s experience will shift dramatically. Stafford will take charge of all critical first-team practices, leaving Simpson mostly observing, absorbing information, and learning from the sidelines. His chance to run an actual NFL offense against a rival will nearly vanish.
Preseason provides a different kind of environment.
For Simpson, it’s a mixture of a lab, a classroom, and a testing ground. This is a unique chance to apply everything he’s learned since arriving in Los Angeles against opponents sporting different uniforms.
Every snap matters. Protecting the ball, reading defenses, making pressure throws—every little detail counts. Mistakes will happen, but how he reacts to them? That’s crucial.
Saturday isn’t merely about whether Simpson can lead the Rams to victory over the Chiefs in a preseason matchup.
It’s about gathering evidence.
Evidence of his progress and an acknowledgment of the distance he still has to cover. When the time ultimately comes for Stafford to step aside, the proof will be there that transitioning the offense to Simpson doesn’t mean the end of championship aspirations.
The Rams want to keep the momentum going.
But just a heads up: McVay’s preseason play calling can sometimes resemble plain oatmeal, lacking in flavor. Honestly, watching kids doodle plays in the dirt during recess might be more inventive.
Most of the players who will see action Saturday will be rookies or practice squad candidates, which means it’s vital to view Simpson’s performance through the right lens.
He won’t be running McVay’s complete offense, nor will he be surrounded by the top-tier talent of the starting roster. So, whether Simpson excels or struggles, it’s essential not to rush to conclusions.
The goal for Saturday isn’t proving he’s ready to take over for Stafford but offering another insight into his development.
