The Los Angeles Rams’ selection of Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson at 13th overall was perhaps the most shocking pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. Even with offensive playmakers like Kenyon Sadiq, Makai Lemon, and KC Concepcion still on the board, the Rams decided to prepare for the future, despite being among the favorites to win the Super Bowl.
The unconventional decision has put Simpson in the spotlight, with many in the media wondering whether he’s worth the pick, and yesterday, a teammate shed light on his early performance.
What Did Ty Simpson’s Teammate Say About How He’s Looked in OTAs?
Rams safety Quentin Lake was interviewed by “The Arena: Gridiron” show featuring Skip Bayless and Aqib Talib, and had this to say about what he’s seen from Simpson so far.
“He can read the offense, even coming in early, he’s been able to make all the throws that he needs to,” Lake said. “He’s very calculated. I think one of the reasons why they liked him so much is that he can anticipate things, too, which I like. I haven’t gone against him personally, but watching him from afar, like he’s getting there.”
Simpson’s mental ability at Alabama is what set him apart, helping him master the Ryan Grubb offense and ultimately carrying the Crimson Tide all the way to the Rose Bowl against the eventual National Champion Indiana Hoosiers.
Though early in the season Simpson sometimes hesitated to cut it loose, he improved as he played, ending the season with 3,567 yards and 28 passing touchdowns, compared to just five interceptions.
Those numbers were enough to rank him 25th in the nation, with an impact score of 85.4 according to PFSN’s College QB Impact Metric, while dealing with a fractured rib and an unconfirmed back ailment.
“It’s starting to click,” Lake added. “It’s because of the guys around him, telling him what to do, what to look at… I think for Ty, having an MVP quarterback, like I’ve been saying, is going to help him.”
The Rams’ safety is completely right.
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While Simpson showcased his raw tools at Alabama, he still needs time to develop them. Thankfully for the Rams, there are few around the league setting a better example for a rookie quarterback than reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford and the youngest coach in history to win a Super Bowl in Sean McVay.
While Simpson sits on the shelf in 2026 and potentially 2027, he’ll have plenty of time to learn from future Hall-of-Famers Stafford and McVay.
