Colby Parkinson — 2026 Fantasy Outlook

In his final two years at Stanford, Parkinson totaled 77 receptions for 1,074 yards and eight touchdowns. He took a step forward as a receiver in 2019 (48/589), but managed just one score on 29 catches after hauling in seven touchdowns the year prior.

Among the top tight ends in the 2020 draft class, Parkinson stood out for his size (a towering 6'7" frame), but lagged behind the tier's best options in timed speed (4.77) and lateral quickness. He projected most naturally as a mismatch weapon in man coverage, particularly inside the red zone, where his size advantage is hardest to neutralize. His release off the line and route running are functional for the position, but Parkinson’s unlikely to generate much yardage after contact unless he either breaks a tackle or benefits from a defender losing their assignment. His calling cards are reliable hands and an ability to win at the catch point above defenders.

Seattle barely used him through his first two seasons, getting him on the field for 20 games while producing just seven catches for 49 yards. He finally showed what he could offer in 2022, catching 25 of 34 targets for 322 yards and two touchdowns, with the Seahawks leaning on him more heavily to close the year (3/45, 5/36/1, and 2/47). The 2023 season was a carbon copy in volume (again 25 catches, two touchdowns, and 34 targets), but the efficiency dipped, with his yards per reception falling from 12.9 to 9.9.

His first year with the Rams led to career-highs in catches (30) and targets (49), leading to 294 yards and one score. Parkinson scored double-digit fantasy points in one game (7/52).

The progression of his game last year came with an elite catch rate (76.8%) and impact touchdowns (8). The Rams upped Parkinson’s role from Week 10 through the playoffs, leading to 42 catches for 492 yards and nine touchdowns on 60 targets across 12 games. Seven of those outcomes (4/41/1, 4/41/1, 3/32/1, 5/75/2, 6/53, 4/36/2, and 2/34/1) led to more than 11.00 fantasy points. The Rams had Parkinson on the field for 57.6% of their plays.