Alabama QB Ty Simpson taken by Rams at No. 13 overall
By Sydney Hunte
Published:
Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson has been selected with the Los Angeles Rams’ 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
That’s easily been the biggest shock of a first round on Thursday that — outside of a few twists and turns — went largely according to plan.
Simpson was widely expected to be a late first-round selection. Few thought he’d be taken about midway through the round, and by the Rams, at that. Los Angeles, of course, already has Matthew Stafford and Stetson Bennett in its quarterback room.
But Simpson is indeed headed to the West Coast. He spent four seasons at Alabama, ultimately emerging as the starter behind center in 2025. He ended up throwing for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and five interceptions. After the Crimson Tide lost their season opener to Florida State, they won eight in a row before going 3-3 down the stretch, ultimately losing to Indiana in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl.
Simpson became the third SEC player to be taken in the first round. He joined LSU’s Mansoor Delane, who went sixth to the Kansas City Chiefs) and teammate Kadyn Proctor, who was taken one pick earlier by the Miami Dolphins.
The Rams went 12-5 in 2025, advancing to the NFC Championship Game for the second time in five seasons.
Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.
