Rams are placing their future entirely on Ty Simpson's shoulders

The Los Angeles Rams have become famous for trading every premium draft pick that isn't nailed down in exchange for a short-term upgrade, and the lone exception to that rule has been quarterback Ty Simpson. The No. 13 pick in the 2026 draft is being eyed as a possible long-term replacement for Matthew Stafford.

One problem Simpson could run into when he takes the reins is a lack of potential around him on the roster. The Rams have essentially said that Simpson is going to be the sole constant expected to elevate surrounding talent, as the cupboard is looking quite bare.

ESPN's Aaron Schatz ranked the Rams dead last in the NFL in talent under age 25, noting that wide receiver Puka Nacua no longer counts for the purposes of this exercise. Only Simpson, who is not projected to see the field for years, was listed as a player worth keeping an eye on.

Rams' under-25 talent ranked worst in NFL

Schatz notes that only two players aged younger than 25 started games for the Rams last season: second-round tight end Terrance Ferguson and safety Kamren Kinchens. The former may see his snaps cut down by the arrival of Max Klare, while the latter shouldn't be thought of as the best young player on any given roster.

While the Rams could climb up this list by continuing to add talent with their truncated list of draft picks, general manager Les Snead's desire to mortgage future assets for veterans will likely not abate. That philosophy could make it difficult for the Rams to surround Simpson with younger talent to develop alongside him.

Everything about Simpson's production at Alabama and his fit in a Sean McVay offense suggests that he would be a quality performer. However, regression or inability to ascend to the rank of franchise quarterback would put the Rams in a huge hole that perpetual contenders like Seattle and San Francisco would love to see them fall into.

If the Rams get another ring with Stafford, perhaps this won't be much of a concern. If they fail to get one, however, the future of this team lies almost entirely on one young quarterback with a single season of starter experience in college and average arm talent. Without the right supporting cast, Simpson could get thrown into a proverbial meat grinder that McVay's offensive excellence will not be enough to blunt.

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This article was originally published on ramblinfan.com as Rams are placing their future entirely on Ty Simpson's shoulders.