Matthew Stafford absence opens door for Ty Simpson

Given that Matthew Stafford’s last preseason snap predates his arrival in Los Angeles by two years, the chances of seeing him take the field against the Chiefs on Saturday are less than zero.How much of a nonstarter is the conversation? Rams coach Sean McVay is more likely to field questions about Myles Garrett returning kickoffs this year than Stafford’s availability in Saturday’s preseason opener.The reigning NFL MVP is far too important to the Rams’ Super Bowl hopes to subject him to even one unnecessary hit over the next three weeks.And McVay is far too smart to tempt fate.So Stafford will remain in his customary preseason bubble wrap, to be opened only for practices before the real thing begins against the 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, on September 10.Rams fans hoping to see Stafford lead the first-team offense will have to wait.They shouldn’t be disappointed.His absence creates something potentially far more valuable: an extended look at the quarterback the Rams are banking on to eventually replace him.Ty Simpson, the 13th overall pick in this year’s draft, figures to get the bulk of the work Saturday and perhaps throughout the preseason.

Stetson Bennett will get his opportunities, too, whether against Kansas City or next Saturday against the Saints.And Bennett, with three years in McVay’s system, remains the logical choice to begin the season as Stafford’s primary backup.But let’s not confuse the short-term depth chart with the long-term plan.Simpson is the future.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story That was the entire point of spending the 13th pick on him.The Rams weren’t drafting a backup quarterback that high.

They were buying themselves a succession plan.And, ideally, enough time to properly develop Simpson before...