The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft is underway in Pittsburgh.
Jerry Jones spoke with Caleb Downs, whose father is Gary, a former NFL running back, and whose brother Josh is a wide receiver for the Colts.
Downs said he was too excited to listen to what Jones was saying. He added he was just excited to do what he can do and be committed to the team.
Downs also spoke about his family. He said God has blessed them, and he is thankful to be in the situation, stating there is a lot of love there.
Simpson’s Unexpected Draft Position
Ty Simpson landed in Los Angeles with the No. 13 pick as the heir apparent to Matthew Stafford. He was selected way earlier than many expected.
Simpson had some first-round guarantees, but pick 13 was a surprise.
In 15 collegiate starts at Alabama, Simpson threw 28 touchdowns to 5 interceptions and led the Crimson Tide to an SEC Championship Game appearance.
Rams’ Quarterback Strategy
The Rams’ selection of Simpson is a bit surprising, as their Super Bowl window isn’t going to be open much longer. It is also surprising to see Sean McVay go back to the archetype of a less physically gifted QB after having so much success with Stafford.
It is so much for the Rams going all in for Matt Stafford’s last season.
Simpson’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Simpson is inexperienced with just 16 starts. He is also small, which comes with durability concerns.
However, in the first eight games of the season, he showed the ability to be a high level operator, putting plenty of NFL throws on film. He will sit behind Matthew Stafford and will be the quarterback of the future.
- Inexperienced (16 starts)
- Small build, durability concerns
- Showed high-level ability in early games
- 28 touchdowns to 5 interceptions in college
Fantasy football players may wonder when Simpson will take over from Matthew Stafford. They may also wonder whether they will see pre-injury or post-injury Ty Simpson.
There are few better teams for Simpson’s landing spot, ceiling wise. However, he’s not a redraft option, and in dynasty, he’s a SuperFlex mid-late first round pick.
Other Draft Notes
The Las Vegas Raiders selected Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first pick, as expected.
After 32 selections are made tonight, the draft will continue with Rounds 2-3 tomorrow and Rounds 4-7 on Saturday.
Rueben Bain Jr.’s slide is a little surprising. Bain Jr. decided to not work out at all during this draft process, which seems to have certainly hurt him.
A well-placed Giants source described Francis Mauigoa as a “Road grader. Can play inside or right OT.”
The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft continues, with Kadyn Proctor selected by the Dolphins with the 12th pick.
Another quarterback is off the board but way earlier than many expected!
One scout described Simpson as a Daniel Jones with fewer physical traits; mid-level starter at best, backup at worst.
The draft will continue with Rounds 2-3 tomorrow and Rounds 4-7 on Saturday.