Former Washington general manager Scott McCloughan has publicly criticized the Los Angeles Rams' decision to draft quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, labeling the Alabama product a "career backup."
The Rams' selection of Simpson came as a surprise, with many analysts projecting the team to address needs at wide receiver or offensive line to support veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford. Simpson has started only 15 collegiate games and dealt with a back injury during his 2025 season, though he still guided Alabama to the SEC Championship Game and the College Football Playoff.
"I think the quarterback from Alabama is overdrafted," McCloughan stated in an appearance on The Team 980. "But it’s the position alone, you know. I think, not being a guru, but he’s like [Minnesota Vikings quarterback] JJ McCarthy. He’s like [former New England Patriots quarterback] Mac Jones. He’s a career backup."
McCloughan suggested that Simpson might only see playing time due to the high draft position and a desire from the Rams' front office to justify the pick. He added, "Ideally, he might start, but that’s because of where his pick was and they want to prove everybody right, you know, type of thing. And that’s not the way you should build a roster. Not at all."
Despite the criticism, the Rams' front office, led by general manager Les Snead, has stood by its decision. The team has also signaled an aggressive approach to the upcoming season by trading for Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, indicating a focus on contending for a Super Bowl during the current campaign while Stafford is still playing at a high level at age 38.