Rams rookie Ty Simpson looks like a future star after torching Chiefs in preseason debut

The Los Angeles Rams' decision to select quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the NFL Draft is already looking prescient after his stellar preseason debut against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Simpson entered the game in the second quarter, replacing Stetson Bennett IV, and proceeded to complete 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions, finishing with a 125 passer rating. Both touchdown passes went to rookie running back Dean Connors in the fourth quarter, helping the Rams secure a 20-12 victory. Simpson also connected on several 23-yard throws, including passes to tight end Mark Redman and wide receiver Brennan Presley. Head coach Sean McVay praised Simpson's command of the offense, noting that the rookie took what the defense gave him, read plays out correctly, and most importantly kept the ball in play. McVay was so impressed that he gave Simpson the honor of breaking down the team in the postgame locker room, a significant gesture for a player in his first NFL game.

The performance was particularly meaningful given the pre-draft criticism Simpson faced. Many draft analysts questioned whether his arm strength was sufficient for the NFL level and pointed to a late-season regression at the University of Alabama as evidence that he struggled under pressure. These concerns made Simpson a polarizing figure on draft day, with many pundits suggesting the Rams reached by selecting him so early. However, Simpson looked comfortable and confident throughout his three quarters of action, consistently delivering accurate passes with adequate protection from his offensive line. The rookie himself admitted he felt more comfortable than ever coming into a game, though he acknowledged he did not know what to expect from the professional level. His father, Jason Simpson, provided simple pregame advice: catch every snap, make the easy plays easy, and go do what he loves.

The Rams' quarterback situation provides important context for Simpson's debut and development timeline. The team already has reigning NFL Most Valuable Player Matthew Stafford firmly entrenched as the starter, leading a team considered among the favorites to win the Super Bowl in 2027. This means Simpson faces no immediate pressure to perform, allowing him to learn and develop behind one of the league's best quarterbacks. The backup competition between Simpson and Stetson Bennett remains ongoing, with Bennett starting Saturday's game and completing 4 of 6 passes for 36 yards in his lone quarter of action. Bennett has no regular-season snaps in three NFL seasons, making Simpson's rapid development potentially crucial for the Rams' short-term planning as well as their long-term future. McVay's decision to play Simpson for three full quarters suggests the coaching staff wants to accelerate his readiness in case Stafford suffers an injury during the grueling 17-game regular season.

While preseason performances warrant caution, as the adage goes that preseason football often lies, Simpson's debut demonstrated exactly what teams hope to see from rookie quarterbacks: poise, accuracy, and the ability to look like they belong. The Rams' front office, which surprised many by drafting Simpson so high, now appears vindicated in their evaluation. The organization clearly views Simpson as the quarterback of the future who will eventually succeed the 38-year-old Stafford. For now, Simpson will continue working with Stafford and the offense, building on a debut that has already changed the narrative surrounding his draft selection. The Rams will host the New Orleans Saints in their next preseason game, where Simpson will have another opportunity to build on his impressive first outing. On the Chiefs' side, Justin Fields completed all four of his passes as Patrick Mahomes' backup, while seventh-round pick Garrett Nussmeier played most of the game, going 13 of 19 for 98 yards. Fifth-round draft pick Emmett Johnson ran 12 times for 59 yards and was perhaps Kansas City's brightest offensive spot in a game played almost entirely by backups.