Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay strongly indicated the team’s backup quarterback position for the upcoming season when he opted to start rookie Ty Simpson in the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Chargers. Stetson Bennett IV, a competitor for the role, did not dress for the game.
McVay, known for protecting key players during the preseason, gave Simpson the start at SoFi Stadium. This decision, according to observations, suggests Bennett has likely secured the job as the primary backup to starting quarterback Matthew Stafford. Bennett had previously strengthened his case by leading the Rams to four scoring drives and scoring two rushing touchdowns in a 34-0 victory over the New Orleans Saints. His absence from the field in the final preseason game was interpreted as a definitive statement on the depth chart.
During the preseason, Simpson completed 29 of 37 passes for 263 yards and two touchdowns. His performance included a 21-of-25 passing effort in his preseason debut against Kansas City. Bennett concluded his preseason work with 23 completions on 37 attempts for 219 yards and two rushing touchdowns.
Simpson's start also provided an opportunity for undrafted rookie Matthew Caldwell to see game action. Caldwell, who played college ball at Texas after transferring from Troy, Gardner-Webb, and Jacksonville State, could be a developmental prospect for the Rams' practice squad.
While McVay has not officially announced the team's quarterback depth chart, his personnel decisions during the preseason finale provided a clear indication of his plans for the backup role.