The Los Angeles Rams’ 14–9 victory over the Houston Texans in Week 1 came with some turbulence at tight end.
Veteran Colby Parkinson, signed this offseason as Tyler Higbee’s primary backup, suffered a sprained AC joint in his shoulder, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Parkinson briefly exited in the first half but later returned, finishing with two catches for minus-six yards and a costly red-zone fumble.
Rams Colby Parkinson Suffered a Shoulder Injury
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“Colby Parkinson suffered a sprained AC joint Sunday vs. Houston, per source,” Fowler reported. “He played through the injury against the Texans. Something to monitor in the short term.”
If Parkinson is limited moving forward, it could open the door for rookie Terrance Ferguson. But that scenario comes with its own uncertainty. The Rams’ second-round pick was a complete non-factor in Week 1, logging zero offensive snaps and just five on special teams.
Meanwhile, the rest of the tight end room carried the load. Higbee led the group with a 58% snap share, though he didn’t record a catch. Davis Allen (37%) made the most of his chances, catching a 13-yard touchdown. Parkinson played 48% of snaps but struggled in the passing game.
Ferguson’s lack of involvement is less surprising when considering his delayed development. The rookie missed two weeks of training camp with a groin injury and only debuted in the preseason on August 23. While he flashed as a receiver at Oregon — posting 134 catches for 1,537 yards and 16 touchdowns — he entered the NFL with questions about his blocking. Sean McVay reinforced that after the preseason, noting Ferguson needed to “finish a little bit better” in the run game.
For now, the Rams appear comfortable leaning on Higbee, Parkinson, and Allen while Ferguson develops. But if Parkinson’s shoulder limits him, Ferguson may be forced into action before McVay truly believes he’s ready.
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