The Los Angeles Rams received a small but meaningful boost in training camp on Monday as rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson returned to the practice field. Ferguson, the team’s second-round pick out of Oregon, had been sidelined since sustaining a groin injury earlier this month, missing more than two weeks of practice.
Rams head coach Sean McVay described Ferguson’s return as limited but promising. “We were a little bit limited in regards to what he could do, but I thought he did a nice job with the few reps that he was able to get,” McVay told reporters, according to Stu Jackson. Ferguson was in full pads, though it remains unclear whether he will see action in the final preseason game Saturday against the Cleveland Browns.
TE Depth Allows Caution For Rams
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Ferguson’s injury has slowed his early integration. Despite entering the NFL with high expectations — McVay told GM Les Snead, “From the first [expletive] time we put this guy on, there was a vision” — Ferguson sits at TE4 on the Rams’ unofficial depth chart, behind veteran Tyler Higbee, free-agent addition Colby Parkinson, and second-year Davis Allen. McVay stressed caution, calling it a “little injury” and signaling that there’s no rush to push Ferguson onto the field.
The Rams’ depth at tight end allows Ferguson to ease back while minimizing risk. Higbee remains the top option, Parkinson has stepped in effectively, and Allen continues to develop, giving Ferguson space to recover.
High Potential, Measured Return
Ferguson’s upside remains clear. Analysts projected him as a potential TE1, with ESPN’s Ben Solak forecasting 63 catches, 821 yards, and six touchdowns, and FTN’s Daniel Kelley predicting he could be the most productive rookie tight end in the league. Inside the Rams’ facility, Higbee called him “a great ball player,” and offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur praised his ability to find soft spots in coverage.
The Rams ran 12 personnel (two-tight end sets) just 5% of the time in 2023, jumping to 15.5% late last season. McVay has reiterated his desire for a more multiple offense in 2025, hinting at greater opportunities for Ferguson once healthy.
For now, Ferguson’s role is defined by measured integration and patience. The Rams have the luxury of depth at tight end, allowing him to regain full health before competing for snaps. As McVay balances development and team needs, Ferguson’s future remains bright — but the present belongs to his veterans.
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