It's only OTAs, but Rams rookie TE Terrance Ferguson is putting on a show

(3) - He was the Rams top selection in the 2025 NFL Draft

Yes, the Rams traded back in the 2025 NFL Draft. We may never know who the Rams may have selected at the 26th overall pick of the draft. But we do know that the Rams were prepared to select Oregon tight end with their first pick in Day 2, even if the team had dared to trade up to the 33rd overall pick.

The Rams waited patiently for Ferguson to fall to the 46th overall pick, and the gamble paid off. While he was selected in Round 2, you can bet that the Rams vetted him extensively for his projected role in this offense.

Was Ferguson a reach? Some draft profiles projected him as late as Round 3 or 4. But he was among the top tight end prospects in a talented rookie class. Tyler Higbee's draft profile shows a very similar style of tight end, with the nod going to Ferguson by a small margin.

(2) - He checks all the boxes

It's difficult to hold a rookie appearing in his first NFL OTAs to the standard of a veteran, but it's clear that even his first encounters with NFL defensive backs in t-shirts and shorts are promising. But pass catching is just one of multiple basic tasks that Ferguson must excel at to be considered to earn offensive snaps and targets in this offense

When the pads go on, Terrance Ferguson will need to prove that he can block. That task is basic, but is vital to the Rams' offense. So there are no shortcuts. He has to establish and maintain blocks. The Rams are confident that he can.

He must also demonstrate the ability to run precise routes. The Rams' offense is based on precision. Receivers must be in their spots at the moment that the football arrives, or the play risks unacceptable outcomes. Timing is critical. Precise routes keep defenders at bay and off-balance to create enough separation for a play to work.

Finally, there are intangibles like timing a leap, catching the football with the hands and away from the body, and even churning out yards after the catch.

In all categories, more evidence is required to confirm that he has mastered all tasks. But throughout the draft process, Rams' scouts and coaches were convinced that Terrance Ferguson could perform everything required of him. Even Rams GM Les Snead is convinced that rookie TE Terrance Ferguson will 'give more effort than the next guy.'