NFL Draft 2026: Sean McVay comes off as 'muted' after Rams' surprise pick of Alabama QB Ty Simpson
The Rams delivered the shock of the draft by selecting Simpson at No. 13.
The biggest surprise in Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft came from the Los Angeles Rams, a win-now team that opted to draft its quarterback of the future . With the 13th overall pick and plenty of talent still on the board, the Rams selected Alabama passer Ty Simpson as the heir apparent to Matthew Stafford . It was quickly reported that head coach Sean McVay had spoken to Stafford earlier in the day to notify him about the decision to draft a quarterback.
Stafford’s reaction to the pick will be interesting. But what really stood out Thursday night was McVay’s reaction. Speaking with reporters alongside Rams general manager Les Snead after the pick, multiple members of the media noticed McVay, well known for his animated personality, seemed subdued while talking about the pick.
FWIW, of all the draft pressers with Snead and McVay, whether it involved a first-round pick or a second-round pick, this one lacked their trademark ebullience and sense of humor. — Gary Klein (@LATimesklein) April 24, 2026 I’ve covered a lot of first-round pick pressers across four beats. This was by far the most muted I have seen a regime about the player they drafted.
https://t. co/g0W27EjINE — Nate Atkins (@NateAtkins_) April 24, 2026 I just watched the entire Rams presser, and I can't say Sean McVay was showing a ton of excitement about the Ty Simpson selection. Said he will compete with Stetson Bennett for the QB2 job.