Rams' connection to Ty Simpson’s dad might explain the most shocking reach in 2026 NFL Draft

Rams' connection to Ty Simpson’s dad might explain the most shocking reach in 2026 NFL Draft originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . With a roster bursting with talent — and Super Bowl aspirations — the Rams seemed likely to attempt to add win-now talent when they stepped to the stage with the No.

13 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Instead, they took a flyer on a high-potential hurler with serious question marks. Los Angeles drafted Ty Simpson with its first-round pick, giving him a far higher draft grade than had been accepted by the consensus of scouts and draft experts.

The logic behind Simpson's selection is clear, even if some might think it's flawed. Matthew Stafford is nearing the end of his glittering career. In Simpson, the Rams think they landed an understudy who can learn all the tricks of the trade from his opposite number before taking over.

Furthermore, Simpson shares a curious relationship with Los Angeles' front office — namely, its general manager, Les Snead. With that, here's what you need to know about Simpson and Snead's relationship, a connection that could help explain the Rams' decision to pick him. 2026 NFL DRAFT HQ: Live tracker | Pick-by-pick grades | Best players still available Ty Simpson's dad's connection to Les Snead Simpson's selection begins to make more sense when held next to his father's connection to the man tasked with selecting him, Snead.