What to make of Rams’ Ty Simpson surprise and more first-round 2026 NFL Draft takeaways
By Ryan Dunleavy
Published on April 24, 2026.
The Rams surprised the NFL Draft's first round by drafting quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 13, a move that put the Alabama quarterback at risk of missing out on his starting job. This move comes after the Falcons signed Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million free-agent contract, but instead drafted Michael Penix Jr. at No 8. The Rams avoided making the same mistake as the Falcons did in signing Kirk Cousins. The Cardinals made Jeremiyah Love the highest-drafted running back since 2018 (Saquon Barkley), earning him a four year, $50.5 million contract with the highest guarantee ever given to a running back. The Titans chose receiver Carnell Tate at No 4 instead of a quarterback of their defense. The Cowboys traded two fifth-round picks to move up from No 12 to No 11, and the Eagles moved up from 23 to No 20, with no regrets on either side.
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