The Los Angeles Rams landed their top tight end target in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Oregon’s Terrance Ferguson in the second round after trading down with the Atlanta Falcons. But according to ESPN, if Ferguson hadn’t been available, the Rams would have been equally satisfied taking LSU’s Mason Taylor, suggesting they had a clear one-two priority list at the position.
A team source told ESPN that while the Rams “would have been happy with either player,” Ferguson was ranked slightly higher. Taylor was ultimately selected four picks earlier by the New York Jets, leaving no ambiguity for the Rams when it came time to make their choice at No. 46.
LA had tight end squarely in their sights well before the pick, even exploring trade scenarios to move into the top 10. According to the report, general manager Les Snead held talks with multiple teams about jumping up the board but ultimately backed off due to the steep price tag.
Los Angeles Rams Draft Due Diligence On Tight Ends
This is not the first time L.A. has shown a willingness to go big at tight end. Just last year, the Rams were reportedly eyeing a trade-up for Brock Bowers, who went on to break Puka Nacua’s rookie receptions record. In this year’s draft, the Bears selected Colston Loveland 10th overall, while Penn State’s Tyler Warren slipped to the Colts at pick 14.
In hindsight, Snead’s restraint may prove wise. Rather than sacrificing premium capital to reach for a tight end, the Rams retained both of their 2026 first-round picks and still landed a high-upside player at a position of need.
Ferguson and Taylor had remarkably similar production in 2024—591 yards in 12 games for Ferguson, and 546 for Taylor over the same span. Both players are nearly identical in build, with Ferguson being a year older. Their comparable profiles underscore just how interchangeable they may have been on the Rams’ board.
Had both tight ends been off the board by pick 46, the Rams’ options would have narrowed quickly. Miami’s Elijah Arroyo was the next tight end selected, going 50th to the Seahawks, followed by Bowling Green’s Harold Fannin at the top of the third round to Cleveland.
Now, head coach Sean McVay—himself a former tight ends coach—gets a chance to develop Ferguson as a potential long-term replacement for Tyler Higbee. While the draft board didn’t force the Rams to pivot, it’s clear they were prepared for multiple outcomes at tight end.
Ultimately, the decision to remain patient and stay flexible in the second round could pay dividends, especially if Ferguson grows into the weapon they believe he can be.
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