Los Angeles Rams
· 2026-07-10
The Los Angeles Rams have released their list of the 26 most important players for the 2026 season, and tight end Colby Parkinson checks in at No. 18. As of July 10, 2026, the Rams sit 5th in the National Football Conference with a 12-5 record and a W1 streak. Their next game is against the San Francisco 49ers on September 11, 2026.
Parkinson joined the Rams in 2024 after spending his first four seasons with the Seattle Seahawks. At 6-foot-7 and 251 pounds, he gives quarterback Matthew Stafford a big target over the middle. Last season, Parkinson caught 34 passes for 328 yards and two touchdowns. Not eye-popping numbers, but his role in the run game matters more.
He's a reliable blocker on the edge. That helps the Rams' ground attack stay efficient. With head coach Sean McVay's offense leaning on play-action, Parkinson's ability to sell the block then release into a route creates mismatches against linebackers.
Parkinson isn't the flashy tight end who will lead the team in receiving. But he's a steady hand. He runs crisp routes and rarely drops the ball. His catch rate sat above 70% last year. That kind of reliability keeps drives alive on third down.
McVay likes to use multiple tight-end sets. Parkinson pairs well with Tyler Higbee, who's coming off injury. Together, they give the Rams flexibility — run or pass, defenses can't key in on one look. Parkinson's blocking also frees up Higbee to split out wide.
The Rams are coming off a 12-5 season and hold the No. 5 seed in the NFC. They open 2026 against the 49ers, a division rival that always brings a physical front seven. Parkinson's blocking will be tested early.
If the Rams want to make a deep playoff run, they need consistent production from their tight ends. Parkinson doesn't have to be a star. He just has to do his job — block, catch the easy ones, and move the chains. That's why he's No. 18 on this list.
Training camp starts soon. Parkinson will compete for snaps with Higbee and rookie Davis Allen. But his experience and chemistry with Stafford give him an edge. Expect him to play around 45-50% of offensive snaps in 2026.
The Rams' schedule is tough. After the 49ers, they face the Detroit Lions and Cincinnati Bengals. Parkinson will need to be sharp from Week 1. If he holds up, the Rams' offense stays balanced. If he struggles, McVay may have to adjust his game plans.
For now, Parkinson is a solid piece. Not a star, but a guy who helps the Rams win. That's worth No. 18.