Ty Simpson waking up, going to sleep with Rams football

As the Los Angeles Rams wrap up their offseason program this week, rookie quarterback Ty Simpson is fully immersed in the steep learning curve of the NFL. For the former Alabama standout, the transition to the professional level has felt like a return to his freshman roots.

Mastering the Playbook

Simpson, who was selected by Los Angeles at No. 13 in the NFL Draft on April 23, describes his current workload as drinking from a fire hydrant. He has adopted a disciplined, detail-oriented approach to his craft, ensuring that every presnap routine, from cadences to complex formations, is studied extensively. His dedication is absolute: Simpson makes the Rams' playbook the last thing he thinks about before bed and the first thing he focuses on when he wakes up.

Every morning, he walks to the facility while listening to recordings of the previous day's practice scripts, using his commute to internalize terminology and play calls. It is an effort to stay sharp despite limited reps, as he shares the field with veteran signal-caller Matthew Stafford and teammate Stetson Bennett.

A High-Level Education

Simpson credits Stafford, who earned NFL MVP honors last season, for taking him under his wing. While he initially felt a sense of awe, he now appreciates the veteran’s "big-brother" role in his professional development. Simpson noted that being in the room with both Stafford and coach Sean McVay has been a tremendous blessing, providing him with a masterclass in awareness and detail.

The coaching staff has taken notice of his work ethic. Rams offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase has been encouraged by the rookie's progress, specifically highlighting his willingness to work and his "early morning, stay long" mentality. Scheelhaase emphasized that Simpson's commitment to the finer points of communication and footwork is exactly what is needed for the position.

Looking Ahead

With the offseason program concluding this week, Simpson plans to remain in Los Angeles during the summer break. He remains eager to continue his preparation and contribute to the team, citing his love for the city and his desire to stay close to the building to maximize his growth.

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