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The Los Angeles Rams’ choices at the 2026 NFL Draft ignited debate across the league. A surprising selection at No. 13 and a class that felt more future-oriented than win-now left analysts divided. Dane Brugler’s post-draft grades added fuel, placing the Rams near the bottom of his rankings and prompting fresh questions about Los Angeles’ strategy.
Why the Rams’ draft decisions provoked strong reactions
The Rams entered the draft with Super Bowl expectations for 2026. That’s why the pick at No. 13 drew instant scrutiny.
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Ty Simpson stunner sinks Rams into bottom-3 draft class: Dane Brugler
- Fans expected a veteran-ready contributor.
- The Rams selected a young quarterback instead.
- That choice signaled a tolerance for developmental risk.
Picking a QB early when a team is a title contender is inherently controversial. For some, it’s prudent depth. For others, it’s a missed chance to add a proven playmaker.
Dane Brugler’s ranking: where the Rams landed and why
Dane Brugler of The Athletic released a full digest of how he graded each team’s draft class. He placed Los Angeles at 30th among all NFL teams.
Brugler’s assessment was built on balance sheets of immediate value and long-term potential. He viewed the Rams’ class as light on instant impact pieces. That perspective pushed the team near the bottom of his list.
Key factors Brugler highlighted
- Questionable immediate roster help from early picks.
- High upside but uncertain timelines for development.
- Limited depth infusion in critical positions.
Ty Simpson: the quarterback pick that split opinion
Selected at No. 13 overall, Ty Simpson became the central figure in the debate. Brugler noted Simpson as the most intriguing Rams selection, even while voicing reservations about the pick’s timing.
Simpson projects as a potential starter down the road, according to scouting takeaways. Yet, the path to meaningful snaps this season is unclear. He may serve primarily as insurance behind the current signal-caller.
- Upside: traits that could translate into a starter within a few seasons.
- Downside: rare immediate contribution for a team chasing a title.
- Timeline: development likely required, with on-field payoff uncertain this year.
Other selections that drew attention
Beyond Simpson, Brugler flagged a late-round choice that could surprise fans.
- CJ Daniels, sixth round: Seen as an offensive weapon with multi-purpose skills.
- Scouting rationale: not a single-game-changer trait, but a useful skill set.
- Potential role: early snaps on offense or special teams, depending on camp performance.
What will shape public opinion this summer
The Rams’ draft class will be judged on tangible results. Training camp reps, preseason film, and early-season availability will all matter.
- Watch for Simpson’s rapport with coaches and command at practice.
- Monitor Daniels for snaps that could earn a roster spot.
- Evaluate whether any rookie can contribute immediately to a Super Bowl push.
