Rams May Solve Their Third Receiver Question With Rising Pass-Catcher

Los Angeles Rams tight end Terrance Ferguson was a shocking pick in the second round during the 2025 NFL Draft, and for the most part, he underwhelmed in his rookie year.

He got on the field some during the two- and three-tight-end sets, but he failed to get much going in terms of production.

In 2026, however, things are looking good for Ferguson, as he is healthy and ready to get the season started, with a full season of Sean McVay's system under his belt.

Ferguson is an explosive, vertical tight end who lacks the size and blocking chops to be a true in-line tight end, but he has serious pass-catching and route-running potential.

According to Rams insider Nate Atkins, Ferguson was circled during the offseason as a player who could take a big leap and contribute in his second year.

Now, they are seeing real growth, and he will be their main third option in the passing game.

" Los Angeles opted against adding an obvious third pass catcher behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams , in part because it has some plans for Ferguson in his second season," Atikins wrote.

"Ferguson had a bumpy start to his rookie year after missing time in training camp with an injury and then waiting half a season to see the field, but he intrigued the Rams by turning his 11 catches into a 21-yard average, and now his route tree is growing beyond simply winning matchups up the seam.

"They are using him on quick passes in matchups with linebackers as well as in alignments at the F (flex), Y (in-line), X (isolated perimeter) and Z (accompanied perimeter) roles.

"He cut weight this offseason to be able to handle all of that, and the challenge will be holding up well enough as a blocker at tight end while doing so. But the path is there for Ferguson to lead a crowded tight end group in catches and yards and to finish third on the team in those categories behind Nacua and Adams."

The Rams rely heavily on Adams and Nacua, both of whom play a physical style that makes them susceptible to injuries.

Nacua especially plays with his helmet down, while Adams is more slick as a route runner, but at his age, he is quite injury-prone

If either of them goes down, Ferguson becomes even more crucial as a key member of the pass attack.

The key thing for him will be how decent a blocker he can be, which can prevent the Rams from tipping their hand about what kind of play they are drawing up.

If Ferguson has lost enough mass, he could also line up on the outside as a receiver.

He is a possible chess piece that can keep the Rams' offense afloat if their top receivers miss time, or if they are healthy, the offense can be the best in the NFL through Ferguson and his versatility.

The post Rams May Solve Their Third Receiver Question With Rising Pass-Catcher appeared first on LA Sports Report .