ESPN predicts Rams rookie to surpass two key playmakers and help Matthew Stafford in a major way

We are just 100 days into the 2025 NFL season officially kicks off. This might be the dead period of the offseason, but luckily, ESPN NFL analyst Ben Solak previewed that season with his 100 days to the 2025 NFL season: Things to know, predictions piece. He tackled a ton of topics, made some key predictions, and kicked off some discussions across all 32 fanbases. 

That includes the Los Angeles Rams, and a focus on the support around star quarterback Matthew Stafford. While everyone knows about Pro Bowl wide receiver Puka Nacua, and the addition of perennial All-Pro wideout Davante Adams, there was another pass catcher that has Solak’s attention. He had some big expectations for rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson. 

“Rams rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson will supplant Tyler Higbee as the starter by Week 5 and end the season as the second-best target in L.A. behind Puka Nacua (and ahead of Davante Adams),” Solak said. “Call it 63 catches, 821 yards and six scores.”

Ferguson was a second round draft selection by the Rams during the 2025 NFL Draft this April. The 6-5, 247-pound tight end was an important member of the Oregon Ducks passing attack the last several seasons. He ended his career with 134 receptions for 1,537 yards and 16 touchdowns. Whether as a pass catcher or blocker, Ferguson was a vital member of the unit. 

For the short term, Ferguson is expected to learn from nine-year pro Tyler Higbee. He has been a tremendous member of the Sean McVay offense over the years, but injuries have derails his career recently. Ferguson is going to be the long term answer, but Solak is projecting a lot immediately. 

Ferguson taking over as the primary tight end from Higbee, however, wouldn’t be a major surprise. Him surpassing Adams as the second leading receiver behind Nacua absolutely would. The former Green Bay Packers and Las Vegas Raiders star has eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark in five straight seasons, and six of the last seven. It’s just been kind of assumed that he would continue that type of production in his first year in Los Angeles. 

If Ferguson does have that type of production, then the Rams team has a chance to be special. That would make one of the deepest pass catching rooms in several years. It could be special with Stafford heading into the twilight of his career.