Rookie TE Terrance Ferguson has perfect setup to explode in Week 9

It's hard to sell Los Angeles Rams rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson as a player to watch for as a breakout star in the offense for Week 9. But after sifting through videos and taking notes of who is and isn't playing in the game, it's tough to ignore his potential to be a huge contributor.

How so? Well, the first indication is the average yards gained per completion. Los Angeles has placed speedy receiver Tutu Atwell on injured reserve, wiping his 41.0 yards per catch off the table. The second most prolific receiver on the roster is Ferguson, who averages 26.0 yards per catch. That's not an accident.

Ferguson was the first rooke selected by general manager Les Snead in the 2025 NFL Draft, a respected rookie prospect out of Oregon. Unfortunately, all of the training camp and preseason bluster touting his fit in the offense has not generated much work for the rookie. He has hauled in two of four passes for 52 yards and a touchdown.

It's safe to assume that the team and fans expected more from him entering Week 9.

Terrance Ferguson is most anticipated offensive weapon on Rams roster

Ferguson's workload has only begun to include targets in the offense. That also coincides with his appearing in more than a cameo role on offense. Out of 120 offensive snaps in the past two games, Ferguson has been on the field for 51 snaps, or 42.5 percent of the offense. That's a huge uptick over not seeing the football field earlier in the season.

There are reasons to believe that trend will continue in the future. Even with Puka Nacua's anticipated return in Week 9, Atwell's absence creates a need for a receiver to stretch the defense. That has been the role that the rookie tight end has filled in the offense so far.

What is the pulse on social media? All you have to do is query the name Terrance Ferguson on X to see compelling evidence from multiple NFL analysts citing Ferguson as a player to watch. It's tough to argue otherwise. He is a huge threat to connect on big plays, and his ability to score is something that head coach Sean McVay loves to see.

The time to get Ferguson on track has never been better. He proved that he can block. He proved that he can score. Now, he simply needs the opportunity to prove that he can do so consistently. Look for the rookie tight end in Week 9 to play well. As always, thanks for reading.