Rams insider reveals unexpected answer to teams WR problem
The Los Angeles Rams’ perceived WR3 problem may not be much of a concern inside the building.According to California Post senior sports reporter Michael Duarte, the Rams are expected to use a committee when it comes to that role behind star receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.Konata Mumpfield, Jordan Whittington and Xavier Smith are expected to get snaps at the WR3 position this season.Mumpfield is slated as the backup to Adams in case of injury on the outside, and Whittington would be the backup to Nacua on the inside/outside role.However, if you look at recent history, the actual third receiving option might not be a receiver at all.
Los Angeles began last season primarily using 11 personnel — one running back, one tight end and three receivers.After its increased use of two-tight-end sets produced uneven results, the offense found greater success with 13 personnel, featuring three tight ends and one receiver.The package worked because each tight end on the roster filled a different role.
It was actually tight end Colby Parkinson who finished third on the team last season in total receptions (43), targets (56), yards (408) and touchdowns (8).Parkinson became a preferred target behind Nacua and Adams for NFL MVP Matthew Stafford thanks in large part to his balanced combination of receiving and blocking.But the Rams have four tight ends on their depth chart including veteran Tyler Higbee, a trusted route runner, Davis Allen and Terrance Ferguson.Through the first month of training camp, Ferguson has impressed the most.
He enters his sophomore season after getting drafted in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft from Oregon.If Ferguson takes the next step in his growth and maturation in 2026, he could surpass Parkinson as the Rams’ “WR3” behind Nacua and Adams.The increasingly positionless nature of modern offense makes that possible.Ferguson can stretch the field from the slot or perimeter on one play, then align beside a tackle and block on the ne...