Ty Simpson called himself a “redneck in Los Angeles” during his introductory press conference for the Los Angeles Rams on April 24.
Simpson had just experienced a whirlwind 24 hours, becoming the talk of the 2026 NFL Draft when the Rams surprised everyone by selecting him 13th overall. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford had just won the NFL MVP two months prior and, during his acceptance speech, announced his plans to return for the 2026 season.
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Three weeks after the draft, Simpson attended the annual NFLPA Rookie Premiere in Los Angeles and didn’t seem shaken by the overwhelming chatter about the Rams’ decision to draft him or how he projects as an NFL starter. When asked by Sports Illustrated, he stood by his original self-assessment.
“Well, I said that because I’m a kid from rural West Tennessee, in Martin, who grew up on just hunting and fishing, and wearing boots and jeans, and then coming to LA, having a different lifestyle,” Simpson said. “Also, I went to Alabama, which is about as redneck as it gets, and then coming to LA was like a culture shock. I feel like I’m fitting in pretty good, but I still believe that I’m a redneck in LA”
Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson reacts as he puts on a hat after being chosen 13th overall by the Los Angeles Rams in the tunnel during the first round NFL football draft at Acrisure Stadium on April 23, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
Simpson will have at least one year to acclimate to Los Angeles without simultaneously shouldering the pressure to lead the Rams to victory. It seems more likely that Simpson won’t take over as QB1 until the 2028 season.
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On Thursday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Stafford, 38, and the Rams reached an agreement on a one-year, $55 million contract extension that could reach $60 million with incentives. The new deal brings Stafford’s overall pact with the Rams to two years, $105 million.
From a financial standpoint, it would be a mini-disaster for the Rams not to see what they have in Simpson until midway through his rookie contract. But from a developmental standpoint, it may be ideal. Simpson spent all four of his collegiate years at Alabama, but he didn’t start for the Crimson Tide until last season.
Watch Simpson’s full Sports Illustrated interview below.
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