The Los Angeles Rams' decision to draft Ty Simpson has sparked a debate among fans and analysts alike. While Simpson was praised for his quick processing and high football IQ, the comparison to Michael Penix Jr., a quarterback from the same Alabama program, raises questions about the Rams' choice. This article delves into the implications of Simpson's draft selection and explores the potential impact of his college experience and the offensive system he played in.
The Alabama Connection
Simpson's draft selection is particularly intriguing given his connection to Alabama's complex and 'pro-style' offensive system. The Rams targeted a player who could navigate this intricate scheme, but the comparison to Penix, who also hailed from the same program, is inevitable. Penix, drafted in the first round, had more college experience running the same system, which raises the question: did the Rams make the right choice?
DeBoer's Offensive Mastery
Kalen DeBoer, the offensive coordinator at Indiana in 2019, played a pivotal role in Penix's success. During his six starts that season, Penix's offense scored 36.6 points per game. DeBoer's system seemed to suit Penix, and his success continued at Fresno State with Jake Haener, who became a fourth-round pick. However, DeBoer's impact on Simpson's development remains uncertain.
Simpson's Struggles
Despite Simpson's potential, his time at Alabama under DeBoer was not without challenges. Simpson struggled to adapt to the complex offensive system, and his performance did not match that of Penix or Haener. In 2025, Simpson won a QB competition, but Alabama's record improved only slightly, and their points per game decreased. This raises questions about Simpson's ability to thrive in the NFL, especially considering his limited college experience.
The Penix Factor
Penix's NFL journey is a stark contrast to Simpson's. Drafted in the first round, Penix has faced challenges but has shown promise. His experience in DeBoer's system, combined with his arm talent and chemistry with the coach, has been a significant factor in his development. However, Penix's struggles in the NFL cannot be overlooked, and his future remains uncertain.
The Rams' Dilemma
The Rams' decision to draft Simpson is a risky move, especially considering the potential impact of Penix's NFL journey. Simpson's limited college experience and struggles at Alabama may hinder his success in the NFL. The question remains: can Simpson adapt to the NFL's demands and thrive under Sean McVay's guidance, or will he become the next 'Kalen DeBoer' rather than McVay's 'Matthew Stafford'?
In my opinion, the Rams' choice is a gamble, and only time will tell if Simpson can overcome the challenges and become a successful NFL quarterback. The comparison to Penix highlights the complexities of evaluating college players in the NFL, and it serves as a reminder that success in college does not always translate to the professional level.
