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Terrance Ferguson's versatility can take Rams offense to new level in 2026
TL;DR
Terrance Ferguson, selected by the Rams in 2025, is poised to elevate the team's offense in 2026 with his versatility as a tight end and slot receiver. His role is expected to expand as he becomes a key hybrid player in Sean McVay's offensive schemes.
In 2025, the Los Angeles Rams selected their tight end of the future, and once Terrance Ferguson arrived in Woodland Hills, he displayed his talent early. However, his rookie season was hampered due to the learning curve that comes with playing in Sean McVay's offense and the Rams' depth at tight end.
As the year went on, Ferguson's usage increased. The Rams employed more multiple-tight end formations in their offense, allowing Ferguson to not only see the field but also be used as a tight end and slot receiver. While Colby Parkinson did supplant Tyler Higbee as the Rams' TE1, he might not have the position for long as Sean McVay's next project enters year two.
From my general understanding, the thought process is to turn Ferguson into the tight end version of Cooper Kupp or McVay's version of Travis Kelce. That means a player who has a deep understanding of the offense and where opportunities will be on any given play, a player who understands defensive coverage and where the holes in zone coverage are. It's also someone who can be a manufactured mismatch at any given moment.
Parkinson should have a significant role moving forward, but Ferguson gets to be the hybrid player that will allow McVay to run his 11 and 12 personnel offense at the same time, with Ferguson operating as the wide receiver/tight end hybrid.
If the defense matches with linebackers, flex Ferguson outside. If it matches with a defensive back, perhaps the Rams run the ball to take advantage of the size difference. It will be this slight wrinkle that takes the Rams' offense to the next level because they can make adjustments at the line of scrimmage with Ferguson's versatility.
McVay is a tight ends coach by trade and Higbee is already the franchise's greatest tight end. Parkinson had a career year last season. So why wouldn't Ferguson be up next?
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams TE Terrance Ferguson can take LA's offense to new level
Q&A
How did Terrance Ferguson perform in his rookie season with the Rams?
Terrance Ferguson's rookie season was challenging due to the learning curve of Sean McVay's offense and the team's depth at tight end, but his usage increased as the season progressed.
What role is Terrance Ferguson expected to play in the Rams' offense in 2026?
In 2026, Terrance Ferguson is expected to serve as a hybrid player, functioning as both a tight end and slot receiver, which will enhance the Rams' offensive strategies.
Who is Colby Parkinson and how does he relate to Terrance Ferguson's position on the Rams?
Colby Parkinson currently holds the TE1 position for the Rams, but Ferguson's versatility may challenge Parkinson's role as he develops into a key offensive player under Sean McVay.
