Rams rookie update just got lost in shadows of Matthew Stafford’s big return

The Los Angeles Rams finally got starting quarterback Matthew Stafford out of the Ammortal chamber and back on the practice field, which is amazing news. As is often the case, one headline-worthy update can overshadow other good developments happening across the roster.

As many reporters rush to encapsulate the latest developments over the headliner of the day, fans may not have caught up with other team happenings, which could be just as impactful. Blink and you missed it, but per Stu Jackson, LA's second-round rookie Terrance Ferguson also made an appearance at practice Monday. He's been dealing with his own health concerns.

Reps are vital to a rookie’s chances of earning snaps, carries, and targets. The reality is that Ferguson simply hasn’t practiced enough to inspire confidence that he can take offensive opportunities from his veteran teammates, at least not yet. But this isn’t a case of his roster spot being in danger. The team loved what they saw from Ferguson in college, and the coaching staff not only had to sign off on him but also carve out a clear role they envisioned for him on the roster.

Terrance Ferguson brings a new dimension to Rams offense

The team resisted the urge to deploy 12-personnel packages in 2024 because the offense disliked swapping out effective wide receivers for less effective tight ends. Even with the return of Tyler Higbee from an ACL injury, the offense rolled right along with three wide receiver sets with only one tight end.

With a healthy and active Ferguson, the two-tight-end offense is back on the table. He may have the frame of a tight end, but at 6-foot-5 and 247 pounds, he brings traits usually reserved for wideouts — precise route running, soft hands, and a knack for finding the end zone. Some draft reviews even described him as the tight end equivalent of former All-Pro receiver Cooper Kupp.

The rookie is unlikely to meet that lofty comparison, but it does reflect the respect analysts have for his precise work as a receiver. He has the awareness to be in the right place at the right time, making the kind of catch that drew the team’s attention in the first place.

Unlike some of the other rookie tight ends from this draft class, Ferguson joins a veteran roster with an already established offense. That forces him to adapt to the system... a much more complex and demanding process than if he had arrived as the focal point of the attack, similar to how Brock Bowers stepped into that role for the Las Vegas Raiders last season.

With so few reps, Ferguson may be asked to play in the Rams’ third and final preseason game on the road against the Cleveland Browns. If he does, it won’t be some hidden message about his roster chances. It’s simply another opportunity to stack more reps before the season begins.

The 22-year-old needs reps. And the Rams offense needs him. Best of all, fans would love to see their electric playmaker in live action. As always, thanks for reading.

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