Ty Simpson, the No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 draft, just led the Los Angeles Rams to a 20-12 preseason victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, finally putting some of that incessant offseason criticism to bed. Simpson’s name had been called in the upper half of the draft’s opening round back in April, but it was followed by a wave of backlash. On Saturday afternoon, that doubt from NFL fans got a serious reality check. Simpson was the driving force behind the Rams’ offense, responsible for 190 of their 321 total yards and throwing two touchdowns, looking incredibly comfortable in the pocket.
The Rookie Showed Up and Showed Out
Talk about making a statement in your first NFL action! Simpson’s numbers against the Chiefs were jaw-droppingly efficient. He completed 21 of his 25 passes for 190 yards, flashing some serious upside as the Rams’ potential long-term quarterback option. Two touchdowns, zero interceptions, and a stellar 125.0 passer rating. If anyone was questioning whether the former Alabama Crimson Tide star could handle the pro game, this performance was a direct, undeniable answer. He completed all but four of his throws! That’s an 84% completion rate, accuracy you absolutely love to see from a guy who’s been under the microscope since draft day. For a rookie quarterback stepping onto an NFL field for the first time, to produce stats like that? It speaks volumes.
A Highlight Reel Debut To Silence The Noise
Simpson wasted no time getting things rolling, starting his preseason debut with a beautiful 23-yard dart slotted inside the right sideline to tight end Mark Redman. It was clear right then and there, on his very first snap, that the rookie was settling in and ready to play. Later in the fourth quarter, as his pocket started to collapse under pressure, Simpson snagged his long-awaited first NFL touchdown pass, connecting with undrafted free-agent running back Dean Connors. What a moment for both those guys to make their mark!
But he wasn’t done. On the very next possession, Simpson zipped another bullet through the middle of the field, finding another undrafted free-agent running back, Brennan Presley, for a critical 23-yard pick-up. This kid wasn’t just dinking and dunking; he was pushing the ball downfield with confidence. And to cap off his incredible day, he threw a dart to Connors again, this time from two yards out, putting the game out of reach for Kansas City to mount any kind of comeback. That final touchdown, a carbon copy of his first connection with Connors, sealed the deal and ensured the Rams walked away with the 20-12 victory. Remember, before this game, this very promising rookie was reportedly listed behind Stetson Bennett IV on the depth chart. This showing, this absolutely dominant debut, changes the conversation completely and puts him squarely in the mix.
What’s next for Ty Simpson after this explosive start? He’s clearly making a huge push up that depth chart. Every snap he takes now carries even more weight as he continues to prove he belongs and that he can be the future for the Rams. You gotta be excited to see what he does next.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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