The Los Angeles Rams are feeling pretty good about landing Matthew Stafford back in 2021, a trade that sent Jared Goff and a pile of picks south, and ended with a Super Bowl trophy in SoFi Stadium. Stafford just wrapped up his most productive season yet, even snagging NFL MVP honors, which is a massive win for the organization. But despite all that success, the Rams just dropped the thirteenth overall pick on Ty Simpson earlier this spring, clearly signaling they're prepping for a future without their MVP.
The MVP is Peaking, So Why the Urgency?
It’s wild to think a team would be looking beyond their MVP quarterback, but that’s exactly what’s happening in LA. Stafford's career isn't guaranteed beyond 2026, and the Rams know how vital the quarterback position is. They’re thinking ahead, making sure they don’t get caught flat-footed if Stafford decides to call it quits. Simpson could be handed the keys to that offense as soon as 2027. This move isn't just about finding a backup, it’s about figuring out if Simpson can actually *surpass* what Stafford has done. For most of his career, Stafford hovered around the 8th to 12th best quarterback, but he’s hit new heights recently. Still, the league is changing fast.A New Generation Under Center
Modern NFL quarterbacks look a lot different from the guys Stafford played against in his earlier days. Think Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, Drake Maye, Caleb Williams, and Jordan Love. These guys aren’t just pocket passers, they can win with their legs. While Stafford brings unmatched headiness, no-look passes, and quick reads that give the Rams a massive advantage, the league is moving toward more mobile signal callers. A savvy pocket passer can absolutely get by, but you might be leaving some opportunities on the field, especially in short-yardage or goal line situations, if your QB can’t make plays with his feet. Simpson, at least on the surface, fits this modern, more athletic quarterback mold. He’s been compared to Brock Purdy, and there's been some draft season chatter that he might just be a mid-tier starter. But listen, Sean McVay's seal of approval for an offensive player is a big deal, even if seeing Simpson in such a favorable light right now means looking past a small sample size. So, the stage is set. The Rams are betting on Simpson to be their guy in 2027, and the question isn't just if he can play, but if he can somehow top the MVP season Stafford just had. Talk about high stakes for a rookie.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.