Tom Brady sent Ty Simpson a message this week, and the Los Angeles Rams’ rookie quarterback didn’t see it coming.
In a video produced for Fanatics, Brady addressed Simpson directly via a video message, telling him he’d left something under his chair as “a little bit of inspiration” for the road ahead. Brady acknowledged the weight of expectations that come with being a first-round pick and told Simpson he was cheering for him every step of the way. Underneath the chair was a signed Patriots jersey, inscribed with a personal note wishing Simpson luck on his journey.
“There’s very high expectations for you as a first pick,” Brady said. “Every day you approach the field, you’re out there to get better, you’re out there to make your teammates better. And I wish you the very best of luck in everything that you’re doing. Keep up the great work and I’m cheering for you every step of the way.”
Simpson’s reaction was unguarded. He laughed as he opened the package, gasped at what was inside and struggled to put into words what the gesture meant to him — visibly stunned by the gift. Simpson called it one of the most meaningful moments of his young career so far
The Rams stunned the league in April by taking the Alabama product No. 13 overall, using the pick acquired in a trade with Atlanta to select a quarterback despite Matthew Stafford coming off an MVP season. Simpson enters as QB3 on the depth chart, behind Stafford and Stetson Bennett, who remains the favorite to serve as the primary backup. But after a solid preseason debut, Simpson could make a case for that QB2 role.
He completed 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns, both to running back Dean Connors, in a 20-12 win over the Chiefs. According to ESPN Stats & Info, Simpson is the first player to throw for 190 yards and two touchdowns in his preseason debut since Baker Mayfield in 2018. Head coach Sean McVay praised his command of the offense afterward, noting he handled progressions well and read the defense accurately.
Simpson isn’t expected to see the field much once the regular season begins with Stafford entrenched under center. But between the on-field debut and now a personal nod from one of the greatest to ever play the position, it’s been a memorable start to his rookie year.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Tom Brady sends clear message to Rams rookie Ty Simpson
Reporting by Oliver G., Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Oliver G., Rams Wire | USA TODAY Network
