Rookie quarterback Ty Simpson is dedicating himself to mastering the Los Angeles Rams’ playbook as he prepares for his inaugural NFL season. The Tennessee native, selected 13th overall in this year’s draft, has adopted a rigorous study routine, including recording and listening to himself recite the team’s play calls multiple times a day. Simpson described this practice as a way to keep the material top of mind, stating it is the first and last thing he focuses on each day.

Simpson, who started 15 games at Alabama, joins a Rams quarterback room led by 18th-year veteran and reigning NFL Most Valuable Player Matthew Stafford. The team also includes fourth-year quarterback Stetson Bennett and undrafted free agent Matthew Caldwell. While Stafford remains under contract through 2027, Simpson is viewed as the heir apparent and is expected to see significant playing time in the preseason, with the potential to step in during the regular season if needed.

The transition from college to the NFL has presented Simpson with a steep learning curve. “Feel like I’m a freshman again — drinking from a fire hydrant,” he said, acknowledging the high expectations and increased detail required at the professional level. Simpson credits support from Stafford, Bennett, quarterbacks coach Dave Ragone, and others for easing this adjustment. Stafford has embraced a mentoring role, answering Simpson’s many questions and helping him acclimate to the team environment.

Rams head coach Sean McVay and offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase expressed measured optimism about the development of Simpson and other rookies, emphasizing the importance of learning and coachability. Scheelhaase, in his first season as offensive coordinator after several offseason head coaching interviews, highlighted Simpson’s willingness to work and absorb the playbook from the outset.

Simpson began his habit of recording himself while at Alabama and has continued it since moving to Southern California following the conclusion of the Rams’ offseason program. Although the team’s official offseason activities have ended, he plans to stay locally to prepare for training camp, which will open at Loyola Marymount University in late July.

While Stafford’s presence limits immediate starting opportunities, Simpson is focused on becoming comfortable with the team’s terminology and execution style. He is focused on gaining fluidity in recognizing and imagining plays once they are called on the field—a process he considers vital for success in the NFL.

As the Rams navigate managing Stafford’s workload, Bennett is expected to see increased reps during training camp. Meanwhile, Simpson remains committed to learning the intricacies of the offense and positioning himself as a future leader of the franchise’s offensive unit.