Ex-NFL star and current analyst Brian Baldinger thoroughly enjoyed Ty Simpson's preseason debut against the Chiefs. Baldinger pointed to the second quarter as the moment the offense found its rhythm under the Los Angeles Rams rookie quarterback. Baldinger walked through a string of bootleg plays where Simpson hit tight ends and receivers. He noted a shotgun snap that showed off some arm strength, then pointed to a staple of Sean McVay's offense. "It was very simple," Baldinger said, complimentarily. "... This is just the Rams. Let's fake the bubble screen over here, and we'll throw the spot screen over here. And we'll just let [the back] score the touchdown, one of two touchdown throws on the day." From there, Baldinger highlighted a downfield shot on a fade route away from the safety, praising Simpson's willingness to drive the ball, before closing on a play-action pass to a crossing route that hit the receiver in stride. "Nice job by Ty Simpson just executing," Baldinger said. "Very efficient."
.@RamsNFL@ty_simpson06 very efficient; very accurate...made it look easy. Strong debut. #BaldysBreakdownspic.twitter.com/B7s3q3cY8H — Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) August 16, 2026 Simpson, the No. 13 overall pick and second quarterback selected in the 2026 draft, completed 21-of-25 passes for 190 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions in the Rams' preseason win over Kansas City. He became the first player since Baker Mayfield in 2018 to throw for 190 yards and two touchdowns in a preseason debut, per ESPN. Both touchdown passes went to running back Dean Connors. Head coach Sean McVay said afterward that Simpson showed "good command" of the offense, noting he took what the defense gave him. Simpson didn't get significant reps during training camp on days starter Matthew Stafford was practicing, making the debut an early proof point for the rookie ahead of the regular season. This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: NFL analyst breaks down Ty Simpson's efficient Rams debut