The Los Angeles Rams sent shockwaves through the NFL by selecting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the 2026 draft. Almost immediately, whispers started that head coach Sean McVay wasn't on board with the move. But according to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, that rumor is about as cold as a January sideline.
Fowler, citing multiple team sources, reports that McVay was not only on board—he was excited about the selection. One source with direct knowledge of the situation put it bluntly: McVay “absolutely” backed the pick, noting that he and general manager Les Snead attack every decision together. Another team source confirmed, “All indications to me were they were in lockstep.”
So why did McVay seem off during his post-draft press conference? Fowler explains that the coach may have been intentionally downplaying the pick to protect the feelings of veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford. “He will be cautious and protective of Matt, and rightfully so,” a source told Fowler. “I think Sean is excited for the pick. The appreciation for the tape was the biggest thing.”
The Rams' decision to grab Simpson at No. 13 was widely considered a reach, as most pre-draft evaluations had him as a Day 2 prospect. But Los Angeles clearly saw something special in the Alabama signal-caller and didn't want to risk losing him. The pick has sparked plenty of debate among fans, with some even calling it a betrayal of the team's win-now window.
Simpson now enters a dream scenario for a young quarterback: learning behind a future Hall of Famer. Matthew Stafford, 38, is widely expected to be in the final years of his career, and his contract runs through the end of this season with no guarantees beyond that. The Rams are clearly planning for the future while still hoping to compete now.
Of course, not everyone is thrilled. Some fans are frustrated that the team didn't use the pick to add an immediate difference-maker for a potential Super Bowl run. But the front office is standing by its decision, and McVay's reported enthusiasm suggests the organization is united in its vision.
As for Simpson, he'll spend the 2026 season soaking up knowledge from Stafford and the Rams' coaching staff. The hope is that when his number is called, he'll be ready to lead the franchise into a new era. And if the reports are true, McVay will be right there cheering him on.
