Ty Simpson has a clear understanding of his position within the team. He’s also aware of his aspirations.
After the Rams’ recent game, where he left the field with a notable performance, it seems he’s making a case for his spot. In the Rams’ 20-18 win over the LA Chargers, Simpson completed 18 passes out of 23 attempts for a total of 119 yards and a touchdown, all in the first half. This marked his stronger showing during the preseason, and he seems to be solidifying his place following being picked as the No. 13 overall pick from Alabama.
“I thought Ty did a great job tonight,” Rams coach Sean McVay stated. “It’s a never-ending process of evolution and growth.”
In his three preseason games, Simpson completed 47 passes out of 60 attempts for 382 yards and three touchdowns, with zero interceptions—a crucial achievement for a rookie learning the ropes of McVay’s system.
His standout moment during the game was an 11-yard touchdown pass. With pressure building, he managed to evade defenders by spinning to his left, keeping his eyes on the field before making a precise throw to the end zone. This play hinted at why the Rams invested so significantly in him.
And it’s worth noting he achieved this against the Chargers’ starters.
In his previous games, Simpson had mostly played the second half after starter Stetson Bennett IV, which meant he faced mostly second and third-string players from the Chiefs and Saints. However, in the recent game, McVay decided to let Bennett rest, allowing Simpson to start instead.
Coaches generally have different preseason strategies; Jim Harbaugh, for instance, tends to play starters longer to get them in rhythm. That decision allowed Simpson to experience a more genuine feel of NFL action early in the game.
“I was aware their starters would be playing a series,” said Simpson, reflecting on facing the Chargers’ defense. “It felt definitely faster, and I had to make quicker decisions.”
While he played notably against a tough defense, it remains uncertain how this will affect the team’s immediate lineup. Matthew Stafford, the reigning NFL MVP, stands as the clear starting quarterback, with Stetson Bennett IV likely to back him up. For now, Simpson is expected to join the team as the third quarterback as they prepare for their season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne on September 10.
Simpson doesn’t seem overly preoccupied with his current ranking.
“I don’t really ask about that,” he commented when questioned if McVay had indicated who would serve as Stafford’s backup. “I just focus on what I’m told to do.”
This mindset might be just as valuable as his impressive play during an undefeated preseason.
Having joined the Rams as a first-round pick with limited college experience, his development over the past months has been evident. With noteworthy lessons learned from Stafford, Bennett, and McVay, he is now navigating his new role with increasing confidence.
“There are no pity parties,” he remarked. “You’ve got to be where your feet are.”
At the moment, Simpson may sit third on the depth chart, but his ambitions are higher.
“Pressure creates diamonds or it breaks pipes,” he said. “I just have to keep moving forward.”
