What is Ty Simpson isn’t the heir?
By: Jake Rajala
The Los Angeles Rams drafted Ty Simpson in the 2026 NFL Draft 13th overall. It’s expected that he will be the heir to the reigning MVP Matthew Stafford in 2027 or 2028.
A fascinating question arises: What if Simpson isn’t ready to replace Stafford?
If Simpson can’t go, Stetson Bennett may be the answer. He was the fourth round pick in 2023. He has mastered the system of Sean McVay. He really shined in the 2025 preseason. He went 44 for 64, 69 completion percentage, 5 TDs to 3 ints.
So, what if the future QB isn’t Simpson or Bennett? I will lay out five names that make sense.
Tua Tagovailoa
If anyone can fix Tua Tagovailoa, it’s McVay. Tua once led the league in completion percentage and passing yards. He was compared to Drew Brees coming out of college. Tua can also shine when he’s asked to roll out of the pocket on a play-action and unleash it 40 yards down the field.
Daniel Jones
I believe the Colts will be patient with Anthony Richardson, who has off the charts dual-threat ability. This could make Danny Dimes a hot trade target in 2027. Daniel Jones went 8-5 last season, threw 19 TDs to 8 ints, and a 68 completion percentage.
Spencer Rattler
It’s easy to peg Spencer Rattler has a trade candidate right now. However, he really makes a lot of sense for replacing Stafford. They both have incredible arm strength and they can really sling it when they get out of the pocket. Rattler is also three years younger than Stetson.
Lamar Jackson
There is no ceiling on the talent that Rams GM Les Snead could bring in. We’ve seen him bring in Myles Garrett, Von Miller, and OBJ. The Rams may want to bring in a highly gifted, dual threat QB in Lamar Jackson. Let’s be fair and acknowledge that he hasn’t enjoyed playoff success (or made the playoffs) in recent times.
CJ Stroud
CJ Stroud is like a young version of Matthew Stafford. Stroud can make any throw on the field, yet he has turnover issues. The Texans defense is arguably the best in the league. They don’t need a QB to be risky. They just need a QB to take care of the football. Stroud can throw 3 touchdowns, but his flaw is that he will also throw an interception.
One of these QBs could be the starting QB in 2027. This doesn’t mean that the door is closed on Simpson starting in a few years!
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