The Los Angeles Rams are developing their next offensive weapon with tight end Terrance Ferguson. An athletic, lanky pass catcher who can dominate from a variety of positions, Ferguson is a matchup nightmare for defenses, and after a rookie season where he flashed, he could be on track for a breakout sophomore campaign.
For Ferguson, it's about developing a deep understanding of the nuances of the offense. For example, when does he need to accelerate or throttle down in order to make himself an easier target for Matthew Stafford? That's the difference that will turn Ferguson from promise to playmaker.
Rams head coach Sean McVay, the mastermind of the offense, says he could not be more pleased with what his tight end has done so far.
“I think the consistency of how he's shown up in the production and really all phases," said McVay on Thursday. "Whether that's asking to be used in protection, in the run game or as a pass receiver. He can play all over the formation. I think he's a lot more comfortable even though I thought he got really comfortable with the amount of snaps that he played as the season went on.
"He's got a bunch of great guys to be able to learn from in 'Scooter' Huff, Tyler Higbee, Colby Parkinson. It'll be great when we get Davis [Allen] back out there, but ‘T-Ferg’ has been awesome. I've loved what he's done so far.”
Ferguson is in a unique position as he is able to play within every offensive personnel group the Rams have, regardless of who is the starting tight end. That versatility goes against how modern defenses have been built. The team's ability to switch up offensive looks should be their X-factor when games tighten in a way that prevents their normal offense from operating at peak efficiency.
One of the drawbacks of using Ferguson as a rookie was his pass-blocking ability. If he continues to improve in that area, McVay will be able to mirror running and passing plays, with Ferguson being a top target for play-action and RPO attacks.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Sean McVay speaks highly of Terrance Ferguson, who’s ’a lot more comfortable’
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