The Los Angeles Rams finally locked down their first-round quarterback, Ty Simpson, on Saturday, eliminating their final training camp distraction. Simpson agreed to a fully guaranteed four-year rookie contract worth a cool $25.4 million, ending speculation right as practices ramp up for the Rams.
The Big Money and Why the Delay Mattered
Simpson’s deal includes a hefty $14.94 million signing bonus, plus a fifth-year team option Los Angeles can snag after the 2029 season. This dude, a former Alabama quarterback, was the No. 13 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. Think about that: he was the *only* unsigned first-round pick in his entire class right up until Saturday. Missing even a single practice for a rookie quarterback, especially one learning Sean McVay’s complex offense, could be a massive setback. He was one of just two unsigned players from the entire draft class, with New England’s second-rounder Gabe Jacas being the other. Getting this done now means Simpson can dive right into full-team practices, which is absolutely critical for a guy stepping into the league.
The Backup Battle and Big Plans for the Future
So, what does that $25.4 million buy them right now? Simpson’s first task is battling Stetson Bennett for the backup job behind Matthew Stafford. Let’s be real, Stafford is firmly in control of the starting spot. He’s the reigning NFL MVP, led the league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns last season, and is locked up through 2027 on a one-year, $55 million extension. The Rams aren’t just looking for a backup with Simpson, though. They see him as Stafford’s eventual successor. The organization knew they might not get another shot at selecting so high in the near future after a 12-5 season that ended in the NFC Championship Game. That means they have time to develop Simpson without forcing him onto the field too soon.
Bennett, meanwhile, has McVay’s praise for his offseason progress and already has more experience in the Rams’ system. That gives him a legitimate shot at opening the season as the primary backup. Simpson brings that first-round talent, known for processing defenses quickly, which should fit McVay’s system well. But he needs to tighten up, become more decisive under pressure, and boost his awareness of pass rushers. Training camp and the preseason are going to be wild for the Rams, with this high-stakes backup competition just getting started.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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