Rams rookie QB Ty Simpson impresses in preseason finale victory
Ty Simpson completed 18 of 23 passes for 119 yards and a touchdown, leading the Los Angeles Rams to a 20-18 preseason win over the Chargers. The Rams finished the preseason undefeated. Backup Matthew Caldwell also threw a touchdown pass in the second half.
Simpson's efficient night capped a standout preseason in which he completed 47 of 60 attempts for 382 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions, posting a 109.9 passer rating. His performance Thursday included an 11-pass consecutive completion stretch and a scrambling touchdown throw to Brennan Presley after a goal-line stand stalled a 17-play drive. Caldwell, competing for a roster spot, connected with Dean Connors for a third-quarter score, while Connors also rushed 18 times for 69 yards. Defensive end Darryl Peterson III recorded two sacks, including a fourth-down stop and a game-clinching forced fumble recovered by Payton Zdroik. The Rams' defense surrendered its first preseason touchdowns, including a 65-yard Herbert-to-Johnston strike, yet held late. The undefeated preseason marks a first under Sean McVay, with roster cuts looming before the Week 1 matchup against San Francisco.
This performance could shape the Rams' quarterback depth chart, potentially elevating Simpson to the backup role behind Matthew Stafford and affecting Stetson Bennett's roster status. For fans, an undefeated preseason may generate optimism heading into the regular season, though exhibition results historically carry limited predictive weight. The team's decision on Simpson could influence long-term roster planning and salary considerations, while the broader NFL audience may view this as an early indicator of the Rams' competitive trajectory in a tough NFC West division.