Rams' Sean McVay Impressed by Ty Simpson Despite Limited Alabama Sample

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay explained why they were so intrigued by rookie quarterback Ty Simpson.

McVay appeared on the Bussin’ With The Boys podcast and highly praised the former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback. He shared what he and the Rams brass loved from Simpson that made them take him 13th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. 

"Based on the film and some of the vetting that Les [Snead] and his crew did, you project this guy to, whenever Matthew [Stafford] decides [to retire], potentially be a starting caliber quarterback," McVay said. "You like the body of work because of the way he was asked ot play the position.

"Is it a short sample size? Yeah, it is, but it's easier to evaluate that short sample size because you are evaluating all parts of in the drop back pass game. You are evaluating the three-step, the five-step, the seven-step, the way the field is distributed, and the types of coverage contours he's seeing in the SEC are similar to what he would see.

"I like the way that he responded when guys would drop balls, and he didn't flinch. Or when guys would give up an immediate free runner and didn't say a word except, 'Where can I be better?' Those are the things that the tape communicated to me."

 If there were still any doubts that McVay didn't approve of the Simpson selection, those should be thrown out the window, considering how highly he spoke of the rookie. 

The 23-year-old is set to be the franchise quarterback whenever the reigning MVP Matthew Stafford decides to call his career quits.

When that will be is unclear; however, what is clear is that the Rams loved what they’ve seen from the Tennessee native. The one knock on Simpson is his lack of starts beyond the high school level. 

Simpson has only started in 15 games, all of which came in the 2025 season. It didn’t end on the highest note, mostly due to injuries; however, when he was on, Simpson was stellar. 

Under center for the Crimson Tide, he recorded 3,567 yards, completed 305 passes, 28 touchdowns and five interceptions. Simpson led the Tide to an 11-4 record with appearances in the SEC title game and the College Football Playoff. 

Only time will tell when Simpson will be handed the keys to the franchise, but one thing is for sure: the Rams will put him in the best position possible when the time comes.