Ty Simpson at 13 Overall Has College Coaches Asking "Why the Rams?"

The first night of the 2026 NFL draft threw a curveball that left college coaches scratching their heads. When the Los Angeles Rams selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick, it wasn't just the player selection that caught people off guard, it was the team. A quarterback class that felt thin at the top suddenly looked a lot weirder once the Rams made their move.

Simpson's Rise Caught Everyone Off Guard

Here's the thing: Simpson spent only one season as Alabama's starter. He never seriously challenged Fernando Mendoza for the No. 1 spot, yet the Rams still saw something worth investing in at pick 13. There was optimism floating around, both inside Alabama and around the league, that Simpson would hear his name called on night one. But at 13? To a team with Matthew Stafford still leading them in their championship window? That's where the eyebrows went up.

"I honestly was surprised," one SEC defensive coordinator told ESPN. "I was surprised by the team, too."

When you're getting that kind of reaction from coaches who actually faced Simpson on the field, you know the pick turned some heads.

The Draft Class That Made Coaches Stop and Think

This wasn't your typical top-heavy quarterback draft. The class was light on elite quarterback talent at the top, which meant every move at the position felt heavier. College coaches have the clearest view of these guys, they've scouted them, coached against them, and know the traits that translate to the next level.

Indiana's Curt Cignetti, the reigning national champion, didn't even show up to watch the first round. He scheduled IU's spring game on the same night, but that didn't stop him from thinking about his players' big moment. "You get so absorbed in your team, you talk about turning the page," Cignetti told ESPN. "But I'm excited for all of them. They've earned that day. I'm excited to see where they all land."

That's the energy around college football right now. These coaches know their guys, they understand what they're walking into, and they're watching to see if draft day gets it right.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.