Rams' Ty Simpson Throws 2 TDs, Rallies Team Past Chiefs in Debut
The 13th overall pick went 21 of 25 for 190 yards with no interceptions, becoming the first player since Baker Mayfield in 2018 to hit that stat line in a preseason debut.
Los Angeles Rams rookie quarterback Ty Simpson threw two touchdown passes and completed 21 of 25 attempts for 190 yards without an interception in Saturday's 20-12 preseason win over the Kansas City Chiefs, becoming the first player since Baker Mayfield in 2018 to post that line in a preseason debut.
How did he do it?
Simpson spread completions to seven different receivers across three quarters of work, with both touchdowns going to running back Dean Connors. Coach Sean McVay praised his poise: "I thought he took what the defense gave him... read the plays out, read with his feet... kept the ball in play." Simpson said the game felt "just like playing in the backyard."
What does this mean for the Rams' backup QB competition?
Stetson Bennett IV, previously reported to hold a clear lead for the backup job, went 4 of 6 for 38 yards on the opening drives before Simpson took over. Simpson's performance complicates that picture heading into the rest of the preseason, even as Matthew Stafford remains firmly the starter.
What's his background?
Simpson was the 13th overall pick in the 2026 draft, the second quarterback taken that year.
Players in this story
Sources
- ESPN: First-round pick Ty Simpson throws 2 TD passes, rallies Rams past Chiefs 20-12 in preseason debut
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