Los Angeles Rams rookie Terrance Ferguson is one of the most unique and promising players in all the NFL. On the surface this could easily come across as hyperbole for someone with only 11 catches for less than 250 yards. However, you can already see the breadcrumbs of how Ferguson can become a special player upon a deeper dive.
Sean McVay’s unique deployment of the rookie
Of all NFL tight ends this season, Ferguson leads the field in average depth of target (aDOT) at 18.3 yards. The next closest player with at least 10 targets is Darren Waller of the Miami Dolphins with an aDOT of 11.9. A difference of nearly six and a half yards is very significant—79 TE’s have an aDOT below this mark alone in 2025.
Ferguson is aligning in the slot on 46.2% of his passing snaps, out wide 23.7%, and in-line 28.5%. He also is asked to stay in to block, and this is something he does surprisingly well. Ferguson has a 74.0 pass blocking grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF), which ranks 23rd out of 131 active tight ends.
In short, defenses must track where Ferguson is lining up on the field because he moves around often. Sean McVay is striving for vertical matchups against linebackers and safeties. It’s a recipe that has worked well for Los Angeles. Ferguson has the most 25-yard catches (five) by a Rams rookie tight end in the last 35 years.
And there is still room for Ferguson to grow.
While McVay has surprised the NFL with a heavy deployment of 13 personnel (1 RB, 3 TE’s), Colby Parkinson has been the lone TE in recent weeks when the Rams pivot back to 11 personnel (1 RB, 1 TE). The time has probably come for Ferguson to begin eating into these snaps and expanding his role on the offense.
Ferguson is one of a kind
If simply leading the NFL in aDOT isn’t impressive already, Ferguson also leads all TE’s on passes more than 20+ yards down the field with 13. The rookie enjoys a PFF receiving grade of 98.7 on such plays, which ranks fifth. The four players in front of him all have grades of 99.9: George Kittle, AJ Barner, Oronde Gadsden, and Colston Loveland.
There are only two TE’s with more than 10 targets of more than 20+ yards, and it’s good company to be in: Kyle Pitts and Trey McBride. Ferguson has two touchdowns on such plays and is tied for the league lead with Pat Freiermuth, Kittle, Loveland, and fellow rookie Harold Fannin.
McVay’s next evolution
One of the most appealing parts of Ferguson’s draft profile was his run after the catch ability. We watched the rookie demonstrate such talents during the preseason; however, we haven’t seen this yet come to fruition over the regular season. He’s certainly capable but needs more opportunities on screens and short/intermediate throws in order to take his game to the next level.
Taking over for Parkinson when the Rams are in 11 personnel is a start. He wouldn’t need to be the designated deep threat like he is when LA is in heavier personnel. McVay probably sees Parkinson as the better option to assist in run blocking; however, this simply doesn’t hold up according to PFF grades. Ferguson is 11th among TE’s in run blocking and Parkinson ranks 31st. The truth is both (or either) seem adequate. Ferguson’s prowess as a receiver and a more formidable dual threat should give him the upper hand moving forward.
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