Rams' Sean McVay Leaves Door Open for Jimmy Garoppolo Despite Drafting Ty Simpson

The Los Angeles Rams entered Thursday night without a clear second-string quarterback behind Matthew Stafford. By Friday, the team had addressed that need by selecting rookie quarterback Ty Simpson in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Simpson will now compete with 2023 fourth-round pick Stetson Bennett to back up Stafford through at least the 2026 season.

On Friday, Rams head coach Sean McVay addressed whether the selection of Simpson eliminates the possibility of re-signing 2025 backup Jimmy Garoppolo.

“I wouldn’t say that,” McVay responded. “I don’t want to say completely closed, but I would say this.”

He continued, “You guys know how much I appreciate Jimmy and what he could really do. I always viewed him as a starting-caliber quarterback. I wouldn’t say he’d ever close it, but by being able to do what we did last night, it probably lessens the level of urgency for that position.”

McVay added, “I certainly would never say never in anything like that.”

Before the draft, McVay expressed hope that Garoppolo—who has reportedly considered retirement—would have a “change of heart” and remain with the team. The Rams’ decision to draft Simpson, however, complicates that scenario. While Garoppolo’s potential return was a factor in their plans, the team may have selected Simpson regardless of his status, as he is viewed as a long-term solution at quarterback.

If Garoppolo re-signs, Simpson would likely replace Bennett on the depth chart, pushing Bennett to the third spot behind Stafford and Garoppolo. The Rams’ quarterback situation remains fluid as the 2024 season approaches.