WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. — Tyler Higbee isn’t ready to walk away from the grass. The veteran tight end signed a two-year, $8 million extension late Thursday, effectively ending retirement rumors and anchoring himself to Los Angeles through the 2027 season. The move ensures that Matthew Stafford keeps one of his most trusted “glue guys” as the Rams look to avenge their 31-27 NFC Championship heartbreak.
While many expected the 33-year-old to call it a career after an injury-plagued 2025, Higbee’s decision to return provides stability to an offense that led the NFL in scoring last year. Despite missing six games down the stretch, Higbee still hauled in 25 receptions for 281 yards and 3 touchdowns. His presence in “13 personnel” sets (three tight ends) was a major factor in Matthew Stafford’s 4,707-yard MVP campaign, opening lanes for Puka Nacua and creating mismatches that forced defenses into impossible choices.
The deal, worth $4 million annually, is a bargain for a player who holds every major franchise receiving record for tight ends. Higbee enters 2026 as the longest-tenured Ram following the recent retirement of tackle Rob Havenstein. With younger targets like Colby Parkinson and rookie sensation Terrance Ferguson emerging, Higbee’s role may shift more toward a situational specialist and locker room mentor, but his impact remains undeniable.
“He missed some time and he went out there and it looked like he hadn’t missed a day… The coolest part for him and for us as coaches is just the joy he brings. He enjoys being out on that grass at a level that is unmatched.”
— Mike LaFleur, Former Rams Offensive Coordinator
The motivation behind the two-year commitment likely stems from unfinished business. Higbee famously missed the Super Bowl LVI victory due to a knee injury and was visibly emotional following the Rams’ recent exit in Seattle. With Stafford confirming his return for 2026 and the Rams’ offense still clicking at a historic pace, the window is wide open. Los Angeles currently holds the No. 1 total offense ranking, and keeping their primary blockers intact is a clear signal that GM Les Snead is going all-in for 2026.
Expect Higbee to be a heavy factor in the red zone and third-down packages where his 6-foot-6 frame and veteran savvy are most potent. The Rams have avoided a massive hole in their depth chart just days before the free agency frenzy begins.
