Rams Omit Ty Simpson and Others from Season Opener Roster Against 49ers

The Los Angeles Rams' first game-day roster for the 2026 NFL season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, included several notable omissions from their 2026 NFL Draft class. First-round quarterback Ty Simpson, second-round tight end Max Klare, and sixth-round receiver C.J. Daniels were inactive for the game, as reported by ESPN’s Sarah Barshop. Simpson's absence was particularly surprising, given that he was selected No. 13 overall in the draft. Instead, Stetson Bennett will serve as Matthew Stafford’s backup, while Simpson has been designated as the emergency quarterback. This decision comes after a strong preseason performance from Simpson, who completed 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions in his debut, followed by an additional 192 yards in the final two exhibition games. Rams head coach Sean McVay praised Simpson's command during the preseason. Klare's absence is notable due to the Rams' heavy use of tight ends, as they ran 331 plays from 13 personnel last season, more than any other team. Despite being a second-round pick, Klare will wait for his debut. Daniels had impressed McVay during training camp, but he, along with veteran Tutu Atwell, was also inactive for the game. Offensive lineman Bill Murray was the final player listed as inactive. While these decisions do not determine the rookies' entire seasons, they indicate the team's current roster hierarchy as they enter Week 1.