The Los Angeles Rams need a backup quarterback, and with the lingering thought that Matthew Stafford could retire after this season, the team could be exploring options in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The top option is Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, the presumed second quarterback off the board. However, if the Rams want him, they must select him early, as the Arizona Cardinals could swoop in and steal him to run Mike LaFleur’s offense.
The latest on Simpson
Simpson took a visit with the Cardinals, and based on what I know about LaFleur, Simpson is everything he thinks he needs in a quarterback. It’s my understanding that LaFleur genuinely believes he can win with Jimmy Garoppolo and despite negotiations with Garoppolo falling apart, the thought process is still there.
LaFleur’s offense is inspired by both Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay. It will likely be Shanahan in nature with an emphasis on the run game, with a dash of McVay’s passing concepts. In order to execute his vision, LaFleur needs a coachable, compliant game-manager to make proper calls at the line of scrimmage, while also making accurate throws on critical downs. He needs a guy who can avoid turnovers, and Simpson only threw five interceptions in 15 games last season.
LaFleur has loaded up his offense for a player like Simpson. A power run game to force defenders into the box, multiple top wide receivers on the outside, longtime Shanahan receiver Kendrick Bourne as a rotational player, and Trey McBride – the best tight end in football.
Rumors suggest that if Simpson is there at the back end of the first round, LaFleur could draft him. Thus, if the Rams want him, they need to act.
The Rams can have it all
There’s good news. The Rams have the option to trade back, potentially picking up future draft picks that can be used as trade ammo during the season. Yes, a top rookie would be great, but if the Rams want Simpson, they could get him while still adding picks to make midseason trades. The Rams’ two Super Bowl trips came off those types of deals, and who knows what the Rams will need come October.
There is a way to grab Simpson, disappoint LaFleur, and maintain the strength of their roster by trading down.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: How the Rams could take a potential QB target from Mike LaFleur and the Cardinals
Reporting by Brock Vierra, Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
