The Los Angeles Rams made one of the most interesting quarterback decisions of the 2026 NFL Draft when they selected Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick. While the move raised serious questions in some circles, it also signaled a clear long-term vision for the franchise.
With veteran field general Matthew Stafford entering the later phase of his career, Simpson represents a potential successor waiting in the wings. The young QB has already embraced the opportunity, expressing excitement about learning from one of the league’s most experienced passers.
Kelly Stafford Reaches Out First As Ty Simpson Awaits First Conversation With Matthew Stafford
During his introductory press conference, Simpson revealed that Kelly Stafford, Matthew Stafford’s wife, had already reached out to him via social media.
The gesture stood out as an early sign of support as the rookie began adjusting to life in Los Angeles.
“Kelly has actually texted me on Instagram and welcomed me and told me to hit her up if we need anything but I can’t wait to talk to Matthew. I’m super ecstatic because I just want to pick his brain,” Simpson said via Arash Markazi.
The comment highlighted both Simpson’s eagerness to learn and the welcoming environment within the Rams organization. While he has yet to speak directly with Matthew Stafford, the rookie made it clear that learning from the best is a priority as he prepares for his pro journey.
Ty Simpson says he has not heard from Matthew Stafford but his wife “Kelly has actually texted me on Instagram and welcomed me and told me to hit her up if we need anything but I can’t wait to talk to Matthew. I’m super ecstatic because I just want to pick his brain.” pic.twitter.com/qWY62T4mSi
— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) April 24, 2026
The situation reflects a classic mentorship setup, with Simpson expected to develop behind a proven veteran. Interestingly, the interaction also sparked lighthearted reactions online, given Kelly Stafford’s past comments about her college days.
During a 2024 appearance on the “Off the Vine” podcast, she shared a candid story about her early relationship with Matthew Stafford.
“Long story short, it wasn’t that cute of a relationship at first. I hated him. I loved him. I dated the backup to p*** him off which worked,” adding context about how she once used a backup QB to make Stafford jealous.
That anecdote resurfaced quickly after Simpson’s revelation, prompting former NFL player Breiden Fehoko to joke, “Stafford wife gotta chill on the backups man.”
Beyond the off-field buzz, Simpson’s arrival carries huge football implications for the Rams. According to scouting evaluations, he enters the league with intriguing upside but still room to grow.
“Ty Simpson’s sample size remains frustratingly small, but the Alabama passer took the NFL Draft world by storm with his quick ascent in 2025,” via PFSN’s scouting report on Simpson.
The same evaluation also highlighted his technical strengths, stating: “One of Simpson’s best traits is his mechanical profile; he has some of the cleanest throwing form in the class, with consistent sync and hip torque across situations. And in his best moments, he’s shown he can quickly discern coverage voids pre-snap and anticipate over the middle.”
These traits suggest that, with proper development, Simpson could eventually handle the demands of an NFL offense. Statistically, Simpson’s 2025 season further reflects his developmental stage.
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According to PFSN CFB QB Impact Metrics, he posted an 85.4 score, ranking 25th nationally. These numbers underscore his potential. However, his draft rating is quite low, as he received a D- in the PFSN Draft room.
Simpson’s transition into the NFL will largely depend on how well he absorbs knowledge from Stafford and adapts to the professional level. With support already coming from within the Rams’ inner circle, his journey is off to a promising start; however, he’s still waiting to hear from the big guy.
