The Los Angeles Rams are seeing a lot of quality contributions from all over the roster in 2025.
But one area the team has enjoyed a lot of success in is at the tight end position. All four of the Rams’ top tight ends have scored touchdowns this season, led by Colby Parkinson’s four. Parkinson has been the biggest bright spot of that group, too, as he’s tracking toward a career year in his season with the Rams.
Through Week 14, Parkinson has caught 26 receptions for 223 yards and four touchdowns — all of which rank third on the team. A year ago, Parkinson’s first season in L.A. was plagued with drops, and he had just 30 catches for 294 yards and one touchdown in 17 games
The difference between 2024 and 2025 has been noticeable for head coach Sean McVay. He told reporters Monday that Parkinson has “settled” this season and is “enjoying playing” this season.
“He’s obviously so gifted, but he works hard,” McVay said. “He has the right mindset mentally and physically. He has a great skillset. I think he’s surrounded by a bunch of teammates that love and care about him and believe in him and it’s the same thing with his coaches.
“You try to put him in situations that maximize the things that he does well and he’s doing a lot of really cool stuff right now. He’s making great plays in the pass game. He’s being a key critical factor in the run game and in a lot of instances he’s at the point of attack. He’s done a great job and I could say the same thing for Davis and I mentioned about ‘Ferg’, but I’m really happy for him. I think our players are at their best when they’re enjoying it and they’re locked in. That’s what I’m seeing from Colby. It’s been really fun to witness.”
Parkinson has been essential for the Rams’ offense since starting tight end Tyler Higbee was placed on injured reserve. Parkinson has started the past three games for the injured Higbee, during which he’s caught 11 receptions for 100 yards and two touchdowns.
The Rams have been effective in utilizing their tight ends this year, and Parkinson has been the most consistent among the group in all areas of the field. He could have faded into the background with rookie Terrance Ferguson or fellow backup Davis Allen, but instead, Parksinon has emerged as another weapon in McVay’s offense.
For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, another threat in the passing and running game is incredibly valuable.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Sean McVay praises key Rams starter for bounce-back season
