The Los Angeles Rams’ success with 13 personnel—deploying three tight ends on the field at once—was one of the NFL’s most effective offensive wrinkles in 2025.
Initially introduced by Sean McVay to offset the loss of star receiver Puka Nacua, the formation became a staple of the offense and highlighted the importance of quality tight-end depth.
The problem for Los Angeles is that its tight ends room may now be too crowded.
The Rams added second-round pick Max Klare and several undrafted free agents this offseason, including intriguing prospect Dan Villari. Those newcomers join veterans Tyler Higbee and Colby Parkinson, along with recent draft picks Terrance Ferguson and Davis Allen.
With so many players competing for limited roster spots, a difficult decision is on the horizon. Parkinson may be the most realistic cap-casualty candidate of the bunch, even if such a move would be a surprise after some strong 2025 efforts.
Parkinson is coming off the best season of his career, recording 43 receptions for 408 yards and eight touchdowns. However, he’s entering the final season of a three-year, $22.5 million contract with no guaranteed money remaining. Prior to last season’s breakout, he had never surpassed 30 catches or two touchdowns in a single campaign.
If the Rams don’t believe Parkinson will replicate that production, moving on would create additional financial flexibility while opening opportunities for younger, cheaper options. That’s especially relevant for a team fully committed to competing for a Super Bowl after its blockbuster acquisition of Myles Garrett.
While McVay could elect to carry an extra tight end, Parkinson’s contract structure and the team’s depth at the position make him one of the more notable veterans who could become expendable before Week 1.
Should he reach free agency, the New England Patriots would make sense as a potential landing spot. Despite improvements at wide receiver, New England still has questions at tight end behind veteran Hunter Henry and rookie Eli Raridon. Parkinson would provide an experienced option for a position group that lacks proven depth.
Potential Landing Spot: New England Patriots