When the Los Angeles Rams made the decision to draft Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, it was viewed as a move strictly for the future. Simpson serves as a skillful backup who should become Matthew Stafford’s successor down the line, but he won’t contribute until the reigning MVP retires.
The move had its fair share of criticisms, including from myself, as it was perceived to be a decision that won’t help the team win instantly. A pick of such value would’ve been better spent on an “instant contributor,” many believed. There was also a concern regarding Stafford’s reaction to the selection.
It turns out, that selection actually helps the Rams immediately.
On Monday, the Rams traded Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2029 third-round pick in exchange for Myles Garrett. Simpson’s selection was a crucial piece in making it happen.
The Rams were in need of a backup quarterback, as well as an answer for life after Stafford. With Jimmy Garoppolo likely retiring and the market looking bare, Simpson fills that hole. Simpson’s selection also meant that the Rams did not need to hold onto their 2027 first-round pick for a quarterback, as they have one already, allowing the team to leverage the pick for Garrett.
With Simpson and his cheap contract in place for the next four years, the Rams may now use their top picks moving forward for stars in the same way they did in years past. With Verse’s departure, Simpson is the Rams’ only first-round selection on the roster that was picked during the Sean McVay era.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: How drafting Ty Simpson helped the Rams land Myles Garrett
Reporting by Brock Vierra, Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
