Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay acknowledged his visibly unhappy demeanor following the team's first-round selection of quarterback Ty Simpson in the NFL Draft. McVay stated on Friday that while his reaction may have seemed otherwise, the team is "excited" about adding Simpson.
"For any of the questions or misunderstandings just based on my demeanor or disposition last night, I did want to get that out of the way," McVay said, smiling and gesturing to general manager Les Snead. He explained that texts from others brought his reaction to his attention, admitting, "I can be a little grumpy."
McVay clarified that his disposition was not related to Simpson's selection but stemmed from other "normal life" factors. He stressed his excitement about adding Simpson, but also his deep respect for veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, whose team it remains. "The demeanor would’ve been stoic by nature because you are excited, but by no means - it is Matthew’s football team."
With Stafford, who won his first MVP last year, reportedly considering retirement after recent seasons, the Rams drafted Simpson to prepare for the future. McVay expressed enthusiasm for Simpson learning from Stafford, stating, "Whenever that time comes for him to get an opportunity to be Matthew’s successor will be on Matthew’s terms."
McVay praised Simpson as a "football junkie" whose game and traits align with the Rams' concepts. He emphasized the collaborative decision-making process, highlighting that both he and the front office were enthusiastic about Simpson's potential.
McVay concluded that if Simpson develops into a quarterback like Stafford, his "grumpy" days would be infrequent.