Los Angeles Rams rookie quarterback Ty Simpson received the top grade after his stellar preseason performance against the Kansas City Chiefs.
There was a ton to like about the Los Angeles Rams' preseason win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday, and much of that includes the play of rookie quarterback Ty Simpson.
Simpson showcased some great poise in the pocket while delivering a strong performance, earning a top grade from NFL draft analyst Chad Reuter. Reuter ranked each of the top rookies after their Week 1 preseason performance, and Simpson earned an 'A' grade.
Simpson had good command of the offense through three quarters of action. The 23-year-old entered the game after veteran quarterback Stetson Bennett started and played in the team’s first two drives.
It took some time for Simpson to get his legs under him, but he looked more comfortable and confident as the game went on. According to Pro Football Focus, Simpson had the third-highest offensive grade among all his teammates at 78.1.
The only Rams players with higher offensive grades were offensive lineman Austin Blaske and wide receiver Brennan Presley.
The 23-year-old and potential successor to Matthew Stafford looked the part, despite the fact that the rookie passer was playing against lower-depth defenders on the Chiefs.
Simpson completed 21-of-25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns. As the game progressed, Simpson looked comfortable, in command, and didn't force anything.
Simpson made quick decisions, threw in rhythm, and showed off his arm strength on a couple of intermediate routes. He looked great on the move as well, something that he has thrived in thus far in his football career.
It was no surprise that Simpson looked at his best on the move. The former Alabama quarterback showcased his athleticism and comfort with rollouts, bootlegs, and movement-heavy play-action concepts while delivering the ball with impressive accuracy and command.
It is one preseason game, but there is no denying that Simpson looked comfortable during his first live-game setting.
The Rams will take on the New Orleans Saints this weekend in their second preseason game, and Simpson is expected to play a lot, as he did against the Chiefs.
Bennett appeared to have the edge in the QB2 battle entering the Chiefs game, but Simpson may have closed the gap with his performance. If the rookie can replicate that success throughout the preseason, he could challenge Bennett for the job and potentially see a start if Stafford misses time in 2026.
Simpson still has a long way to go, but he’s off to a promising start to his NFL career.
