Kelly Stafford Welcomes Rams First-Round QB Draft Pick With Personal Message

Clear Facts

• Los Angeles Rams selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft
• Kelly Stafford, wife of Rams veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, sent a welcoming message to Simpson via Instagram
• Rams coach Sean McVay confirmed the team remains Matthew Stafford’s and Simpson will serve as backup quarterback

Matthew Stafford, at 38 years old, continues to perform at an elite level in the NFL. The veteran quarterback recently added a league MVP award to his resume in February, his first such honor after throwing a career-best 46 touchdowns during the 2026 season.

Stafford narrowly edged out New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye for the award. As he enters his 18th season in the league, the Los Angeles Rams made a strategic move Thursday night that signals their planning for the future.

The Rams selected former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 13 overall pick in the first round. The decision immediately sparked discussion about succession planning, and Kelly Stafford, Matthew’s wife, responded to the new addition with a welcoming gesture.

“Kelly has actually texted me on Instagram and welcomed me and told me to hit her up if we need anything,” Simpson said during his introductory press conference.

“But I can’t wait to talk to Matthew. I’m super ecstatic because I just want to pick his brain.”

Simpson comes to Los Angeles after serving as the full-time starter at Alabama, where he threw for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns in 2025. His selection represents a commitment by the Rams organization to develop the quarterback position for long-term stability.

Rams head coach Sean McVay moved quickly to address speculation about Simpson’s role with the team. He made clear that the rookie would not be competing with Stafford for the starting position.

“There were a lot of players that we liked, but when you do look at it, I think the thing you liked about the body of work is … let’s make one thing clear, this is Matthew’s team,” McVay said Thursday.

“You get a chance to be able to address the backup quarterback.”

The Rams’ interest in Simpson developed over time. According to NFL Network reports, Simpson’s parents met with Rams general manager Les Snead during Alabama’s trip to the Los Angeles area for the Rose Bowl in January. Simpson’s father, Jason Simpson, serves as the head football coach at UT Martin.

The selection provides the Rams with a high-ceiling backup while allowing Stafford to continue leading the team. Simpson will have the opportunity to learn from an MVP-caliber quarterback while developing his skills at the professional level.

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