The Los Angeles Rams came very close to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2025 season, suffering a narrow 31-27 defeat to the eventual champions, the Seattle Seahawks, during the NFC title game. As they gear up for the 2026 season, the Rams face significant gaps they must address if they’re aiming for an even deeper playoff quest. This is where mock drafts become essential, offering clearer insights into which positions the team might focus on bolstering.
Draft analysts widely anticipate that the Rams will direct their attention toward strengthening their defense with their two first-round picks, Nos. 13 and 29. ESPN’s Field Yates projects that the Rams will select two cornerbacks. The Rams’ formidable top seven in their secondary struggled against elite wideouts like Jaxon Smith-Njigba in crucial moments, creating a pressing need at cornerback that could see both picks allocated to this position.
Others, such as Dan Parr, have proposed that the Rams might draft a wide receiver and an offensive tackle to enhance their offensive capabilities. Few analysts, however, are predicting a quarterback selection, especially with veteran Matthew Stafford confirming his return following an MVP season. Nevertheless, one can’t disregard the likelihood of this option being explored.
Considering 38-year-old Stafford nearing the latter stages of his career, it’s wise to contemplate drafting a quarterback who could learn from the veteran and eventually step into the starting role. The Packers made this move successfully with Jordan Love, and the Chiefs executed a similar plan with Patrick Mahomes.
Former safety turned analyst Louis Riddick seems to back this strategy, sharing that Sean McVay and his staff hold a favorable view of Alabama’s Ty Simpson, touted as the second-best quarterback in this draft.
“I know personally [the Rams] like Ty Simpson. When you analyze his skillset alongside his character, that aligns perfectly with their requirements,” Riddick mentioned, according to JPA.
: The Rams, who possess picks 13 and 29 this draft year, are enthusiastic about Alabama QB Ty Simpson, as per @LRiddickESPN
“I know personally [the Rams] like Ty Simpson. When you analyze his skillset alongside his character, that aligns perfectly with their requirements.”… pic.twitter.com/7aSEnkazM2
— JPA (@jasrifootball) February 15, 2026
Simpson has been linked to other teams, including the New York Jets, who hold the second overall pick, and the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have pick No. 21. The Jets might consider trading down while still pursuing Simpson, making it feasible for the Rams to potentially draft him. However, the No. 13 overall pick could be early for this selection, whereas No. 29 might prove too late if Pittsburgh opts to seize the opportunity.
Last year, in his inaugural full season as Alabama’s starting quarterback, Simpson showcased his abilities consistently, leading his team to an 11-4 record, an SEC Championship Game appearance, and advancing to the CFP quarterfinals.
He accumulated 3,567 passing yards, ranking 10th nationally and second in his conference. Additionally, his 28 touchdown passes also placed him second in the SEC, while establishing the lowest interception rate in Alabama’s history with only five interceptions.
As some teams might overlook this promising candidate, it wouldn’t be unreasonable for the Rams to choose him at No. 13. In what many regard as a relatively underwhelming draft class, Simpson could emerge as a valuable asset. The Rams could certainly benefit from such a fortunate selection to maintain their competitive edge even as Stafford nears retirement.
