Los Angeles Rams rookie quarterback Ty Simpson had a strong response to criticism of being drafted, which showed his big-time maturity.
One sure-fire way to ignore critics is to not allow what they say affect you at all. That was certainly the case for Los Angeles Rams quarterback Ty Simpson, who has faced nothing but questions after he was drafted with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
While many fans and analysts have questioned taking Simpson so high, and at all, nothing was more dramatic than what appeared to be the angry face of head coach Sean McVay directly after the first round took place. The Rams rookie was asked if he had seen the video, which he admitted he had not, and simply changed the subject to showcase his maturity in the situation.
Considering how the youth pays attention to social media and the world in general, it would be hard to believe that one of the biggest storylines and videos had not reached Simpson. He could be telling the truth, but he might also not care.
When speaking to Gary Klein of the LA Times, Simpson admitted that he was met with excitement after being drafted, and that is all that matters.
"I didn’t really see it," Simpson said of the presumed angry McVay video.
Again, Simpson could very well be lying, but it could have also been a whirlwind time for the rookie passer. Following the draft, most players are immediately flown into the city where their new team resides, and are met with meetings, introductions, and more.
Next would have been the rookie mini camp, which Simpson was thrust into. The Rams treat their rookie mini camp as a three-day orientation where they break down responsibilities, sign paperwork, and more.
The Alabama prospect may not have had the time to be on the internet or even care about what was said. However, he did respond to the idea that he was facing any sort of criticism with a strong message
"I know one thing though," he said. "I know Coach McVay has been in contact and he’s super fired up. And I’m super excited.
"I know that I couldn’t have asked for a better situation, not only with the best player in the league in front of me but the best coach in the league at the helm."
Simpson is right about one thing: he is entering arguably one of the best situations he can possibly get. He gets to learn from McVay, one of the most respected offensive minds in the NFL, along with sitting behind the reigning MVP in Matthew Stafford.
Again, this does show that Simpson is approaching his situation with complete maturity, which only bodes well for the Rams. He could have bought into the critiques, but instead pointed to the hugely beneficial situation he finds himself in.
There was some additional drama that Kelly Stafford contacted Simpson, but not Matthew. Simpson also cleared that up by saying that the Rams leader did reach out to him.
Simpson will likely be under the microscope through 2026 and through when he actually starts for the Rams. For now, he will simply get to sit and learn from some of the best coaches and players in the league.