The Los Angeles Rams appear to have a clear blueprint for their quarterback room heading into the 2026 NFL season, even as questions linger about the hierarchy behind starter Matthew Stafford.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, the Rams plan to carry three quarterbacks on their 53-man roster this year. Stafford and first-round rookie Ty Simpson are roster locks, but the organization remains high on the progress shown by Stetson Bennett as he enters his fourth offseason in Sean McVay’s system.
Carrying three signal-callers isn’t a foreign approach for Los Angeles. The Rams utilized a three-QB setup on the active roster in 2025 with Stafford, Bennett and Jimmy Garoppolo. Keeping Bennett onboard ensures the franchise maintains experienced depth while giving both him and Simpson space to continue battling for the primary backup spot behind Stafford.
Whether Bennett or Simpson ultimately claims the QB2 role remains to be seen, but early camp reports on the rookie are encouraging.
Simpson was one of the most talked-about selections of the first round, with draft analysts questioning the value of taking a developmental passer mid-round. However, organizational sentiment around the Alabama product has steadily elevated in recent days. Team evaluators believe Simpson has taken noticeable steps forward since the pads came on in practice. The physical intensity of padded sessions offers a better environment for Simpson’s processing skills, making the reps feel closer to real game action where his athletic instinct can take over.
The Rams are in no rush to force the issue. With Stafford firmly entrenched at the top of the depth chart, Los Angeles can afford to let the backup competition play out organically throughout the remainder of training camp and the preseason slate.
For McVay and the front office, holding onto Bennett provides immediate insurance while Simpson continues his transition into the pros at a comfortable pace.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: NFL insider hints at Rams’ 2026 plans for Ty Simpson, Stetson Bennett
Reporting by Oliver G., Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Oliver G., Rams Wire | USA TODAY Network
