Matthew Stafford Breaks Silence on Rams Controversial Call To Draft Ty Simpson
Matthew Stafford and Ty Simpson/Images via Imago
Matthew Stafford and Ty Simpson/Images via Imago
Matthew Stafford is regarded as one of the best QB in the NFL, and his leadership quality was on display yet again during his reaction to the Rams selecting QB Ty Simpson in the NFL Draft.
There was some controversy around the Simpson pick, and some questioned how the MVP QB would react to it. However, Stafford made it clear that he understood the thought process behind the decision. He gave his reaction to the pick after the OTAs on Friday.
“I understand where the team’s coming from. Listen, I’m not 25 years old, and I get that. We’re doing everything we can to be as good a football team as we can for now, for the future, for all of it.” He stressed that he and head coach Sean McVay had talked about this already.
“I’m not going to get into what our conversation was. I appreciate him talking with me about those things. We have constant dialogue and a great relationship, and so I appreciate that,” said Stafford.
He also mentioned how he has to be a mentor to Simpson, but also help the Rams contend.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson answers questions from the media during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA Scouting Combine on February 27, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire NFL: FEB 27 Scouting Combine EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2602270757
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson answers questions from the media during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA Scouting Combine on February 27, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire NFL: FEB 27 Scouting Combine EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2602270757
“My job first and foremost is to get myself and our team ready to play as best as I possibly can. We (Stafford and Simpson) are in a unique position in that we play the same position. I have a ton of experience and he’s just now starting his journey as an NFL player.”
Stafford seems happy with the choice that the Rams made. And he is making his thoughts known.
Matthew Stafford Praises Simpson
During an appearance on ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show Primetime State of Sports on Wednesday night, Stafford mentioned how he is excited about mentoring Simpson.
"I'm in there with him in the meeting room, on the practice field, trying to share as much knowledge as I can," said Stafford.
He also mentioned how he was a fan of Simpson's collegiate career.
"I was a big fan of Ty when he was playing at Alabama. I sent him a text after he got drafted and said, 'Really enjoyed watching you play.' He's a talented kid. He's been a sponge, man."
Stafford is preparing for his 18th season and is coming off an MVP award and an NFC Championship Game appearance. With Simpson having a mentor like him, we could be seeing him fulfill his potential and become a future franchise quarterback for the Rams.
Do you think Simpson can reach his potential, and what are your thoughts on the Rams for this season? Let us know in the comments!
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Written by
Dhruv Vishnu Nair
Edited by
Zaid Quraishi