The Los Angeles Rams have reached an agreement to keep tight end Tyler Higbee on their roster for at least two more years. The deal, announced in early 2026, extends the career of the 33-year-old veteran with the Rams, ensuring quarterback Matthew Stafford continues to have one of his favored targets available.
Higbee, who joined the Rams in 2016 after being selected in the fourth round of the NFL Draft from Western Kentucky, was approaching free agency and had considered retirement. However, Rams head coach Sean McVay expressed the organization’s willingness to retain him, leading to the finalized contract extension worth up to $8 million, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Veteran Player’s Impact and Achievements with the Rams
Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 253 pounds, Tyler Higbee has been a cornerstone at the tight end position for the Rams over ten seasons. He holds the franchise record for tight ends in receiving yards with 3,949 and leads in touchdown catches with 27, establishing himself as the most productive tight end in Rams history.
Higbee was part of the Rams team during their Super Bowl LVI championship season but did not see playing time in the title game. His playoff performances included personal bests of nine receptions and 115 yards in a single postseason. Unfortunately, a knee injury during the 2022 NFC Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers sidelined him for the remainder of that contest and resulted in his placement on injured reserve before the Super Bowl.
Despite missing the final game, Higbee earned a Super Bowl ring when the Rams narrowly defeated the Cincinnati Bengals, 23-20. He is currently the longest-tenured player on the Rams’ active roster, highlighting his steady presence through multiple competitive seasons.
Recent Performance and Injury Challenges
Throughout the 2025 season, Higbee appeared in limited games due to injury, missing seven contests but still contributing 25 receptions for 281 yards and three touchdowns. His 2024 campaign was significantly impacted by an ACL tear sustained during the previous postseason loss to the Detroit Lions, causing him to miss the first 14 games of that year.
Over his career, Higbee has amassed 386 receptions and proven to be a reliable option in short-yardage and critical situations, continuing to offer value to the Rams’ offensive scheme despite injury setbacks.
Contract Extension’s Role in the Rams’ Future Plans
Re-signing Tyler Higbee reflects the Rams’ commitment to maintaining experienced players who have contributed substantially to the team’s recent successes. Keeping a familiar target for quarterback Matthew Stafford ensures continuity in the passing game as Los Angeles prepares for upcoming seasons.
Sean McVay’s decision to bring Higbee back underscores the coaching staff’s belief in Higbee’s ability to bounce back from injuries and continue to play an important role in the team’s offense.
