Here’s what I like about this pick.
If the Rams just found their future franchise QB, none of this debate will matter in 2–3 years. That’s the reality. This feels very much like the Green Bay Packers philosophy, draft a high-ceiling quarterback, let him develop behind a proven veteran, and think long-term instead of chasing short-term validation. That’s exactly what Les Snead is doing here.
The potential transition from Matthew Stafford to Simpson could mirror what the Packers pulled off going from Brett Favre to Aaron Rodgers. That doesn’t mean it will happen but that’s the blueprint. Tyson has the tools, but like any prospect, the real question is whether he can put it all together at the NFL level. Did Snead reach? Maybe. But anyone claiming certainty right now is just guessing. Time will tell.
Another aspect I like: if Tyson doesn’t work out, the Rams are in a position to know early. Assuming Stafford stays healthy, Tyson won’t be forced onto the field before he’s ready. That gives the coaching staff time to evaluate him behind the scenes. Sean McVay saying Tyson will immediately compete with Bennett is actually a smart move. If Tyson can’t beat out Stetson, that’s a major red flag and the Rams can pivot quickly, limit the damage, and avoid being tied to him long-term by declining the fifth-year option.
And this is exactly why I trust Les Snead.
People are so quick to call something a “reach,” but look at what Snead has consistently done for this franchise.
He drafted Aaron Donald in the 1st round (13th overall)—arguably the greatest defensive player of his generation and one of the best to ever play the game. If you remember dropped to 13th because teams were convinced he was too small to be effective in the NFL. How did that work out?
He found Cooper Kupp in the 3rd round, a pick that turned into a Super Bowl MVP and one of the most productive receivers in football.
He landed Tyler Higbee in the 4th round, who became a long-term starter and one of the most reliable pieces of the offense.
Then look at what he’s done in the later rounds, where most teams are just hoping to find depth.
Kyren Williams — 5th round
Puka Nacua — 5th round
Byron Young — 3rd round
Kobie Turner — 3rd round
Steve Avila — 2nd round ()
That 2023 class alone helped accelerate one of the fastest rebuilds in the NFL. Puka Nacua was a 5th-round steal who immediately played like a star. Kobie Turner and Byron Young became instant contributors on defense, and Steve Avila solidified the offensive line. ()
Then in 2024, Snead kept stacking talent:
Jared Verse — 1st round
Braden Fiske — 2nd round
Blake Corum — 3rd round
Kamren Kinchens — 3rd round ()
This isn’t luck anymore. At some point, repeated success becomes a pattern.
Snead and Sean McVay have proven they can identify talent in every round, develop players quickly, and build around a long-term vision instead of reacting emotionally to public opinion.
So when people ask, “Did Snead reach?”
My answer is simple: this is the same GM who found stars in the 3rd, 5th, and even later rounds while rebuilding a playoff team after losing Aaron Donald.
He’s earned the benefit of the doubt.
The Rams don’t just draft for today. They draft for what this roster looks like two and three years from now—and more often than not, Les ends up being right.
The Rams clearly have a plan. And this pick fits that plan, whether people see it yet or not.