Ty Simpson: I appreciate the big brother role Matthew Stafford’s playing in my development

When the Rams selected quarterback Ty Simpson to be Matthew Stafford’s successor in April, it was a surprise to many.

But Simpson was well aware of Los Angeles’ interest in him, even if he denied that publicly until well after the night he was drafted.

Now as Simpson settles in, he’s leaning on the man he’ll eventually replace to further his understanding of his new scheme. Stafford has said Simpson hasn’t been shy about asking questions, which is a positive given the nature of the position.

“I hope I’m not annoying him,” Simpson said recently, via Gary Klein of the L.A. Times, “but I really appreciate the big brother kind of role he’s playing in my development.”

Simpson added that Stafford is “the MVP for a reason.”

“Everything he does, he’s so just aware of everything, aware of how everything works,” Simpson said. “I really appreciate him and Stetson taking me in and answering all the questions I have.”

The No. 13 overall pick of this year’s draft, Simpson is likely to get extensive reps during preseason games as he continues to get his feet wet in the league. The Rams traditionally have not played starters in preseason games under head coach Sean McVay.