Matthew Stafford is still proving he belongs among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks even at age 38. The veteran signal-caller added another milestone to his decorated career in February by winning his first league MVP award after an outstanding season with the Los Angeles Rams.

Stafford secured the MVP honor after throwing a career-high 46 touchdown passes, narrowly beating Drake Maye of the New England Patriots. As he prepares for his 18th NFL season, the Rams appear to be planning for the future at the quarterback position.

During the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday night, Los Angeles selected former Alabama Crimson Tide football quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 13 overall pick. The move has sparked discussion about Simpson potentially becoming Stafford’s eventual successor in Los Angeles.

The selection also drew a reaction from Stafford’s wife, Kelly Stafford, who quickly welcomed the rookie quarterback.

Speaking at his introductory press conference, Simpson revealed that Kelly Stafford reached out to him on social media.

“Kelly actually texted me on Instagram and welcomed me and told me to reach out if we need anything,” Simpson said. “But I can’t wait to talk to Matthew. I’m super excited because I just want to pick his brain.”

Simpson is coming off a strong 2025 season at Alabama, where he threw for 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns as the team’s full-time starting quarterback.

Despite speculation about a potential quarterback competition, Rams head coach Sean McVay made it clear that Stafford remains the team’s leader.

“There were a lot of players that we liked, but let’s make one thing clear — this is Matthew’s team,” McVay said. “You get a chance to address the backup quarterback.”

According to reports from NFL Network, Simpson’s parents met with Rams general manager Les Snead when Alabama traveled to Los Angeles for the Rose Bowl in January. Simpson’s father, Jason Simpson, currently serves as the head football coach at UT Martin.

With Stafford still performing at an MVP level, the Rams appear focused on balancing the present and the future as Simpson begins his NFL journey in Los Angeles.