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Mike LaFleur’s hilarious 'Mr. Grumpy' jab at Sean McVay flipped Rams narrative fast

Comedy is a natural way to cut tension.
Dec 29, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay reacts on the sidelines during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Dec 29, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay reacts on the sidelines during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay was still doing damage control days after his reaction to the club's selection of Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. But that wasn't necessary, as the Arizona Cardinals' new leader, Mike LaFleur, comically expressed during a recent appearance on The Rich Eisen Show.

LaFleur knows a thing or two about how the Rams like to operate. He spent the past three seasons as their offensive coordinator. And so, his light-hearted jab regarding McVay's viral reaction to the 2026 NFL Draft decision that shocked the football world speaks volumes.

By the sound of it, LaFleur wasn't surprised like everyone else to see Los Angeles take Simpson 13th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. The ex-Rams assistant was more caught off guard by McVay's grouchy appearance.

"I was surprised at Mr. Grumpy that night because I know how excited he is about that quarterback," LaFleur stated. "He always really liked that quarterback."

Former Rams OC Mike LaFleur playfully silences noise surrounding Sean McVay's reaction to Ty Simpson pick

Speculation that Simpson's arrival blindsided McVay has taken on a life of its own. However, that notion has been thrown out the window as more information comes in. LaFleur's hilarious comments are the latest example.

Nothing within the Rams' organization happens without being green-lit by McVay, at least from a roster-building standpoint. The 40-year-old is the team's sun, moon and stars. We've heard him make it clear that he and general manager Les Snead "couldn't be more in lockstep," which LaFleur essentially validated.

The more McVay tries pleading, the worse the situation looks; it implies guilt. Hearing his former right-hand man weigh in on the matter from a distance is far more convincing.

Besides, Simpson has since revealed that he had "some secret meetings" with McVay (h/t ESPN's Sarah Bishop). The Alabama standout and the Rams did everything they could to keep their communication "under wraps." Nevertheless, LaFleur is aware that Los Angeles got its guy ... of the future, that is.

Of course, the presence of reigning MVP and star passer Matthew Stafford, who turned 38 in February, looms large. He's reportedly "deep" in contract extension talks with the Rams, and there's internal belief his career goes beyond the upcoming campaign. Los Angeles has no plans to replace him with Simpson anytime soon.

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