TE as a group finally looks good to me. This is probably the best TE group the Rams have ever had, which on one hand demonstrates how poor the position has been for us but also the impact that a young up 'n comer added to what we already had makes.
Higs is the best TE in Rams history. He's not an elite pass weapon but he's good all around and not having him last season was fucking painful. He should be healthy, knock on wood.
Parkinson was a disappointment as a signing. But if you consider that he was quite raw and signed on upside and with the desperation of needing someone who looked the part in that room, there is that possibility he shows better in a role that suits him this season. I see Parkinson as a backup to Higs in the inline role, he is similar in that he's not a great pass game weapon but can do the inline job for us if Higs misses time while also adding some timely catches. And most importantly as a young player there is still that possibility he improves.
Allen like Parkinson disappointed last season. He didn't step up as a weapon in the pass game, but also wasn't quite up to snuff for the inline role either. Ourlads has him as fourth on the depth chart, I think for the start of camp he's probably the presumptive slot role but truth is he wasn't good enough to drive 12 sets last season so it is possible that Fergy jumps him quickly. Thing is Allen does have good hands and another year under his belt, rough though it was. Like with Parkinson it is possible to see improvement here.
Ferguson might be that player the staff focuses on to ensure each week's install is understood, so they can tap into his talent early and may even run some plays to feature him. But I think he's going to need to learn the offense and work his way up the depth chart. So for me he's fourth and behind Allen for now.
Feels really good to look at this group and know we have real upside as well as real depth. And the competition is going to help a ton. Honestly I wasn't sure Parkinson would even be around, given his performance vs what he was paid. But looking at the group overall I'd say 4 are going to make the cut and the depth is desirable.
