Ian Rapoport gives most believable explanation for subdued Sean McVay

The Los Angeles Rams selected quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick. That prompted the fans to fume and NFL experts to celebrate. Unfortunately, Sean McVay gave off 'fuming fan' vibes throughout the action, prompting many to assert that he is upset with his new quarterback before he ever arrives.

But NFL insider Ian Rapoport offers a different explanation, and it's the best one yet. In essence, after LA witnessed how the Green Bay Packers drafting of Jordan Love hit with then starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and the Atlanta Falcons handled their drafting of Michael Penix Jr. with veteran Kirk Cousins, Coach McVay knew Matthew Stafford would watch how the team handled selecting Ty Simpson.

Ian Rapoport's assertion makes plenty of sense, as LA and Stafford are in negotiations to bring Stafford back for 2026 and perhaps beyond. And the odd, random comments from McVay that stated Matthew Stafford is his starting quarterback now seem to fall into alignment.

McVay was using his body language to ensure Stafford knows he is the Alpha quarterback on the roster.

Coach McVay continued to downplay Ty Simpson's importance to team

Despite the foregone conclusion that the future of the LA Rams lies in Ty Simpson's hands. Sean McVay continued to make numerous statements to downplay his importance. Not only did he state unequivocally that Matthew Starter is the starter, but he even stated that Simpson would compete with Stetson Bennett for his spot on the depth chart.

If you were looking to shed Stetson Bennett, you are out of luck. As is often the case, offensive rookies have to earn the trust of coaches, and that takes both time and plenty of training camp reps. Just examine how difficult rookies have found the path to playing time since 2021.

Even wide receiver Puka Nacua benefited from the untimely injury to veteran Cooper Kupp to get his shot at playing time.

No rookie selected on Day 1 would likely have made an immediate impact on this team. All starting positions have been claimed. As a result, not even a Cornell Tate was guaranteed to suit up for the first offensive snap in Week 1.

Sean McVay has an obligation to his starting quarterback, and he met his obligation by walking a tightrope in the effort not to show excitement. Was that an easy task to perform? You will have to ask him.

Los Angeles is taking the contractual relationship with Stafford a year at a time. By drafting a rookie quarterback, the team has a viable Plan B if future contract negotiations fail next year.

As always, thanks for reading.

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