Rookie Ty Simpson is entering a Los Angeles Rams environment far more stable than the one Jared Goff inherited in 2016. While Goff was placed into a 0-7 rookie start, Simpson will sit behind Matthew Stafford to learn Sean McVay’s system.

This patient approach gives Simpson time, something that Goff did not really have early in his career. Back then, Goff entered a tough setup. The team was not doing well, and he was pushed into action quickly.

He ended his rookie year 0-7 as a starter, and things looked rough at the start. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell explained why Simpson’s situation feels different.

“In the big picture, the Rams were able to add a player who could help keep them from the same decade of irrelevance,” Barnwell said.  “If that keeps McVay on board as coach… Simpson could be even more valuable.”

That view shows how the team is thinking long-term this time. Simpson is joining a side that is already winning, not rebuilding. The Rams are coming off an NFC Championship run, which changes everything around a young quarterback.

The coaching setup also helps. Sean McVay is settled, and the system is clear. That kind of stability was missing when Goff first arrived, and it made his early years harder.

Simpson will still have to prove himself. He is expected to take over later, once Stafford steps away. But right now, the focus is on learning, not results.

That slower path could help him avoid early struggles. And while the Rams plan for the future, another NFC team is looking at ways to support its current quarterback.

Lions Linked With Veteran Guard to Support Jared Goff

The Detroit Lions are also working on their offense, but in a different way. Instead of looking ahead at the quarterback, they are trying to strengthen the support system around Jared Goff.

There is growing talk about adding experience to the line. The Lions have built through the draft, but they may now look for a proven player to help right away.

One name that has come up is Joel Bitonio. The veteran guard is currently a free agent and is also thinking about retirement after 12 seasons and 178 games, which makes the situation unclear. Lions reporter Bob Heyrman shared his take on the move.

“This one is a bit complicated, but it would be an absolute home run for the Detroit Lions,” Heyrman said. “The long-time Browns guard is an unrestricted free agent. Bitonio is a two-time first-team All-Pro and a seven-time Pro Bowler.”

That experience is what Detroit needs. The team wants someone who can handle pressure inside and keep the pocket clean for Goff.

Bitonio has been very reliable during his career. He has started all 178 games since being drafted in 2014 by the Cleveland Browns. That level of consistency is rare.

Still, nothing is decided yet. His final call on retirement will shape what happens next. If he joins, it could give the Lions a strong boost going into the season.

Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason