Rams, 1st-round pick QB Ty Simpson reportedly agree to 4-year rookie contract

One day before training camp begins, the Los Angeles Rams have reached an agreement with first-round pick Ty Simpson.

The quarterback will sign a four-year rookie contract worth $25.4 million, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Selected No. 13 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft Simpson will receive a $14.94 million signing bonus.

Simpson was the last of the 32 first-round picks to agree to terms, days after No. 1 overall selection Fernando Mendoza reached agreement on a four-year, $57.4 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday.

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While Simpson was expected to be the second quarterback taken behind Mendoza, there was some question as to whether he would go in the first round with few teams having a glaring need at the position. Additionally, Simpson’s physical traits and limited experience as a starter at Alabama raised some questions regarding his viability as a prospect.

With reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford under center for the Rams, selecting Simpson was a surprise — even a shocker to many. Especially with other players on the board who could fill an immediate need including receiver, tight end or offensive lineman for the Super Bowl contender.

Stafford was signed for the 2026 season when Simpson was selected, indicating that the Rams might be looking for the first-rounder to take over in a year. But Stafford agreed to a one-year, $55 million contract extension soon thereafter, keeping him signed through the 2027 campaign and providing an extra year for Simpson to become acclimated to the NFL game.

Simpson only had 50 passing attempts during his first three seasons at Alabama. However, he was the full-time starter during the 2025-26 campaign, completing 65% of his passes for 3.567 yards, 28 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. The Crimson Tide went 11-4 overall and finished in a four-way tie atop the SEC at 7-1.

At just under 6-foot-2 and weighing 211 pounds, there is some doubt as to whether Simpson has the size to be durable in the NFL. Injuries including a lower back issue and a fractured rib during his final season at Alabama compounded those concerns.

The Rams begin their 2026 training camp on Sunday.