Ty Simpson Shines in NFL Debut as Rams Rally Past Chiefs.

Ty Simpson made an impressive first appearance in a Los Angeles Rams uniform Saturday, helping lead his team to a 20-12 preseason victory over the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. The rookie quarterback threw two touchdown passes and delivered a performance that showed why the Rams were willing to select him in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Simpson, a former Alabama quarterback, completed 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards while throwing both of his touchdowns to Dean Connors. He played more than two quarters and looked comfortable running the Rams offense. Although much of his playing time came against Kansas City’s reserve defenders, Simpson remained composed and took advantage of his opportunity. Rams head coach Sean McVay was pleased with Simpson’s decision-making and ability to protect the football. Simpson consistently worked through his reads and avoided forcing unnecessary throws. His performance gave Los Angeles an encouraging look at a quarterback the organization hopes can develop behind veteran starter Matthew Stafford. Stetson Bennett opened the game for Los Angeles and completed four of six passes for 36 yards. Bennett is expected to serve as Stafford’s primary backup, but Simpson’s strong debut could make the Rams’ quarterback situation one of the more interesting storylines to follow throughout the preseason. Kansas City took a different approach at quarterback. Patrick Mahomes did not play as he continues recovering from knee surgery. The Chiefs have been encouraged by his rehabilitation, but the team chose not to risk playing him in the preseason opener. Justin Fields received limited action and completed all four of his passes. Kansas City signed Fields partly to provide an experienced option while Mahomes works his way back to full strength. Rookie Garrett Nussmeier handled most of the remaining quarterback duties and completed 13 of 19 passes for 98 yards.

One of the Chiefs’ biggest problems was discipline. Kansas City committed 12 penalties for 83 yards, with several mistakes coming from the backup offensive line. The penalties stopped promising drives and prevented the Chiefs from establishing consistency on offense.

Rookie running back Emmett Johnson provided one of Kansas City’s better performances. The fifth-round selection rushed 12 times for 59 yards and showed potential as he competes for a role in the Chiefs’ backfield. Both teams rested several key starters, allowing younger players and backups to receive valuable playing time. Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones appeared for only the opening defensive snap, while McVay relied heavily on players deeper on the Rams’ depth chart. Los Angeles also left the game with an injury concern. Rookie offensive tackle Keagen Trost suffered a hamstring injury during the first quarter. Trost, a third-round selection from Missouri, started the game after entering the preseason listed behind Warren McClendon Jr. at right tackle. Arrowhead Stadium also returned to a familiar appearance after hosting World Cup matches during the summer. Seating sections that had been removed for the tournament were restored, and the venue returned to the Arrowhead Stadium name after previously being known as GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.

For the Rams, Simpson’s debut was the biggest story of the night. His accuracy, composure, and ability to lead the offense provided an encouraging start to his NFL career. Los Angeles will host the New Orleans Saints next Saturday, while Kansas City will travel to Tampa Bay for its next preseason matchup.