The Los Angeles Rams have confirmed that first-round draft pick Ty Simpson will participate in the team's upcoming preseason opener. Head coach Sean McVay announced that Simpson will take the field during Saturday's matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Simpson was selected with the thirteenth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, a move that surprised many observers given the presence of veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford on the roster. The organization views Simpson as a potential long-term successor to Stafford, who remains under contract but is expected to sit out this contest.
Stetson Bennett has been named the starting quarterback for the game. As is typical in preseason play, the Rams plan to bench their primary starters, allowing Bennett and other quarterbacks to gain experience. Simpson is projected to see significant playing time, likely competing against second- or third-string defenders.
The current depth chart lists Bennett as the first-string quarterback and Simpson as the second-string option. Both players have zero career passing yards in the NFL. Third-string quarterback Matthew Caldwell, another rookie, is also expected to participate. Caldwell played at Texas behind Arch Manning last season and earned a training camp invitation after appearing in seven games.
Stafford, who has accumulated 64,516 career passing yards, will not play. His absence shifts the focus to the younger quarterbacks vying for roster spots. Bennett is considered the primary backup candidate due to his familiarity with the system and prior experience.
