Ty Simpson Set to Make NFL Debut in Rams' Preseason Opener vs. Chiefs, Sean McVay Says

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed that rookie quarterback Ty Simpson will play in the team's first preseason matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs, per ESPN's Sarah Barshop.

McVay also said that fellow reserve signal-caller Stetson Bennett might not suit up for Los Angeles in the preseason, via Greg Beacham of the Associated Press.

Reigning MVP Matthew Stafford's 2026 preseason status is unknown, although he hasn't suited up in any preseason games as a member of the Rams.

While Bennett has received more playing time with Los Angeles' second-team offense in training camp, McVay previously praised Simpson's progress.

"He's doing a great job," McVay told reporters on July 27 (h/t Stacey Mickles of Touchdown Wire). "I think the best thing is I think some of the leadership from our peers with Matthew [Stafford] pouring into that room with Ty, with Stetson [Bennett IV], with Matthew [Caldwell], that's a big deal."

"Stetson got the majority of those reps with the second group today, but Ty came in and did a nice job with the one set that he did have," he added. "We'll just kind of continue to evaluate, but being able to figure out what that looks like is important."

Bennett also took all of the second-team reps during Saturday's session, per Nate Atkins of The Athletic.

Still, it appears as though Simpson will receive plenty of opportunities to stand out in the preseason after the Rams selected him with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

The 23-year-old is coming off a 2025 campaign at Alabama in which he completed 64.5 percent of his throws for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns compared to five interceptions.

The Rams will open their preseason action against the Chiefs on Aug. 15 at 4 p.m. ET.