On The Rampage: The Rams’ No. 13 Pick Reflects a Misread of Timing, Urgency, and Draft Value
Rams’ Selection of Ty Simpson at No. 13 Raises Questions About Timing and Draft Value
The Los Angeles Rams used the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, a decision that immediately shifted attention away from the roster’s current trajectory and toward a longer-term projection at the most important position in the game. For a team structured to compete now, the selection stands out not because of the player alone, but because of the context surrounding it.
At the time of the pick, the board still offered players expected to contribute immediately. Rueben Bain Jr. remained available and was selected at No. 14. The Philadelphia Eagles then traded up to secure Mikael Lemon. Both players project as contributors in the near term at positions where performance is measured on every snap. The Rams passed on both. They also passed on Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq, who, despite the Rams’ existing depth at the position, was widely regarded as one of the strongest overall prospects still available.
The selection becomes more difficult to reconcile when placed alongside the current quarterback situation. Matthew Stafford remains the starter and continues to perform at a level that supports contention, especially considering he was the MVP last season. His contract runs through the 2026 season, and while there has been periodic discussion about retirement, the organization has maintained a flexible, year-to-year approach rather than signaling an immediate transition.
“We’ve been like that,” head coach Sean McVay said when asked about Stafford’s status. “You’ll probably see us put another year in there as kind of a placeholder, like we’ve done each of the last couple years. But he’s earned the right to be able to be on a year-to-year basis, and that’s something that we’re comfortable with out of respect for him. And hopefully he continues to say, every year, ‘I’m ready to go again.’”
That framework suggests continuity rather than urgency. Stafford is “ready to go again” this season, and beyond 2026 remains open-ended rather than defined.