Ty Simpson Responds to Criticism of Rams First Round Pick

The Los Angeles Rams surprised the football world when the team used the No. 13 overall pick on former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson.

Los Angeles was expected to use the selection on an offensive playmaker for quarterback Matthew Stafford, who recently signed a $55 million extension. Amidst the criticism of the selection, Simpson made it clear he’s not listening to the outside noise and instead focusing on making himself the best player he can possibly be.

“I really didn’t care, to be honest with you. Everybody can have an opinion, but it’s my job to take care of my business,” Simpson said, via SI’s Gilberto Manzano.

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“So, the Rams took me with the 13th overall pick, so now it’s my job to be the best player I can be, the best Ty I can be, and go out there and prove them right,” he added. “I don’t really listen to all that. My job is to make sure to do whatever my team needs me to do to win and that’s what I’m going to do.”

He’ll get a chance to learn from one of the best quarterbacks of the generation as Stafford leads the Rams offense in 2026, but could potentially take over in 2027 if the longtime quarterback decides to retire after this season.

He’s not exactly falling off, though, as Stafford is the reigning NFL Most Valuable Player after throwing for 4,707 passing yards, 46 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 2025.

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This story was originally published May 25, 2026 at 4:50 PM.