49ers' John Lynch Reacts to Rams' Ty Simpson Pick in New Video from 2026 NFL Draft

The NFC West figures to once again be a daunting race between the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers, so it was notable when Los Angeles selected quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13 overall in Thursday's NFL draft since he will likely sit for a while with Matthew Stafford under center.

It was so notable, in fact, that 49ers general manager John Lynch was asked about the move.

"I think another team in our division got a player who is going to impact. I'm talking about Jeremiyah Love, a fantastic player," Lynch told reporters while initially deflecting a bit on the Simpson question. 

"Ty Simpson's a good football player. There was a lot made as to where he would go and what teams would do. It probably surprised everybody. But one thing I've learned over the years with quarterbacks is people will do those types of things. They certainly did, so we'll see."

Seattle is the reigning Super Bowl champion, while Los Angeles and San Francisco are coming off playoff appearances. The Rams had an opportunity to land a player who could help swing the 2026 division race but instead took more of a long-term move.

Lynch would surely never say so publicly, but the 49ers likely weren't too upset Los Angeles chose that route given how close the battle for playoff spots could be during the upcoming season.