There were plenty of people surprised to see an NFL team take the risk on Ty Simpson as a first-round pick during the 2026 NFL Draft, despite the lack of consensus on whether or not the former Alabama star possessed such talent.
But not only did the Rams take him with the 13th overall pick in the draft, but they also reportedly liked the prospect so much that they kept the plan a secret in the weeks leading up to the event. And during his preseason debut on Saturday, he showed why he was so highly valued. He went 21-for-25 passing for 190 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions as the Rams defeated the Chiefs to open the preseason.
In his first NFL preseason game, Rams first-round pick Ty Simpson has completed 21-of-25 passes for 190 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. pic.twitter.com/BEAuftQUEO
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 15, 2026
There were reports this offseason that Simpson might not be living up to the hype, as he was reportedly trailing behind both starter Matthew Stafford and backup Stetson Bennett. And while Bennett did end up starting the game, he threw just six passes, leaving the majority of the work for Simpson – who made the most of the opportunity.
It was an effort that proves Simpson was likely worth the first-round pick and shows he is developing well in his first months in the league. And while no one is expecting him to come in and take the starting job this year – with the defending league MVP, Stafford, back for another season – the Rams will likely need a new quarterback of the future in the coming years. And Simpson's first impression was promising for those hoping he can inherit that role.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Ty Simpson's preseason debut shows why Rams made him a draft priority