The NFL Draft never fails to deliver a few jaw‑dropping moments, and Thursday night added another headline‑grabbing surprise: the selection of Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. Going into the draft, analysts were split on Simpson’s projected slot.
Some believed he belonged in the late first round, while others doubted he would even crack the top thirty‑two picks. In the end, the Los Angeles Rams defied most expectations by pulling the trigger on Simpson with the 13th overall pick, sparking a flurry of debate, division among fans, and a surprisingly subdued reaction from head coach Sean McVay.
Sky Sports NFL’s Jeff Reinebold captured the bewilderment on the Inside the Huddle podcast, saying, “I can’t use the exact words from the broadcast, but basically, are you kidding me? I think Sean McVay was genuinely surprised that the Rams reached for Ty Simpson right there.” Reinebold admitted the pick knocked him "for a loop" and forced him to re‑evaluate the Rams’ draft strategy in real time. He reflected on the team’s existing quarterback situation, noting that veteran Matthew Stafford still had two years left on his contract and that the Rams appeared to be crafting a long‑term transition plan. Reinebold went on to compare the limited film on Simpson to the broader context of the Rams’ receiving corps.
He mentioned the rehab‑bound Puka Nacua, the aging but still productive Davante Adams, and the newly acquired USC wideout Makai Lemon, who he described as a "perfect fit" for the offense. According to Reinebold, the Rams saw Simpson checking enough boxes—size, arm talent, and a willingness to learn—to justify a long‑term investment, even if his résumé was relatively thin.
Simpson now joins a quarterback room anchored by Matthew Stafford, the 38‑year‑old veteran who just came off an MVP‑caliber season that took the Rams to the brink of a Super Bowl appearance. Simpson’s college career was brief but productive: after sitting behind Bryce Young and Jalen Milroe at Alabama, he started only one full season, completing 305 of 473 attempts for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns and five interceptions over 15 starts. That season unfolded in two distinct halves; he began strongly but faded toward the end, throwing seven touchdowns against four interceptions in the final stretch and raising questions about his draft stock. Reinebold emphasized the importance of body language in evaluating coaches, noting that McVay—usually known for his upbeat, gregarious demeanor—appeared unusually restrained when discussing Simpson.
"He wasn’t the kind of guy who would step up to the podium and rave about the pick," Reinebold observed, underscoring how unexpected the selection seemed even to those inside the organization. The Rams still have other quarterback options on the roster.
Stetson Bennett, a third‑round pick out of Georgia in 2023, remains in the mix, while veteran Jimmy Garoppolo is reportedly weighing retirement. Reinebold drew a parallel between Bennett and Simpson, saying, "Both are quarterbacks who didn’t log a huge number of college snaps, but they’re accurate, have solid mechanics, and lack the elite physical gifts that turn heads. If you’re going to take one, you need to decide which profile fits your scheme better." The night also featured drama on the wide receiver side of the board.
USC’s Makai Lemon, who had been in talks with the Pittsburgh Steelers and seemed destined to fall at the 21st spot, was unexpectedly snatched by the Philadelphia Eagles at 20th overall after General Manager Howie Roseman traded up. Reinebold praised Roseman’s move, calling it "incredible" and noting that the Eagles were looking for a younger, cheaper, faster target who could complement Jalen Hurts and elevate the offense that had faced heavy criticism the previous season. Analysts had previously compared Lemon to Detroit Lions star Amon‑Ra St.
Brown, and the Eagles’ decision to acquire him aligns with their desire to add a dynamic playmaker alongside DeVonta Smith, Saquon Barkley, and Hurts himself. "He came in looking like he wanted to start playing a game right there and then," said Eagles analyst Reynolds. "He looks tough, competitive, and the fans will love his gritty style." Overall, the Rams’ decision to draft Ty Simpson illustrates the unpredictable nature of the NFL Draft, where teams balance immediate needs, long‑term development, and the ever‑changing landscape of player value. While some pundits may still question the wisdom of reaching for a quarterback with limited starting experience, the Rams appear confident that Simpson’s skill set and fit within their offensive philosophy justify the gamble.
As the draft continues into its third day, fans will watch closely to see whether this bold move pays dividends on the field or becomes a footnote in the annals of draft history. The remainder of the draft will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event, Action, and Mix, with day three concluding on Saturday at 5 p.m. on Sky Sports Action.