Rams Sign Brandon McManus Amidst Kicker Instability

The Los Angeles Rams have signed veteran kicker Brandon McManus, continuing a season-long struggle to find consistency at the position. The move comes after rookie kicker Blake Grupe suffered a season-ending ACL tear during a recent game.

McManus, who previously played for the Denver Broncos, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Green Bay Packers, reportedly beat out fellow veteran Matt Prater in a workout on Tuesday. He becomes the Rams' third official kicker in three weeks, and the fourth player to handle kicking duties this season, including punter Ethan Evans who filled in during Sunday's loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

Since Greg Zuerlein's departure in 2020, the Rams have cycled through numerous kickers, with McManus being the 14th different player to attempt field goals during coach Sean McVay's tenure. The team's kicking instability has become a notable weakness.

Grupe's injury occurred just one week after he was signed off the New York Jets' practice squad, following the release of previous kicker Harrison Mevis. The Rams lost their recent game 18-16 to the Cardinals, a defeat that dropped their record to 2-4.

McManus's 2023 statistics show he made 24 of 30 field goal attempts, including 3 of 5 from beyond 50 yards. The Rams organization, known for its focus on player personnel, faces continued questions about its approach to the critical kicking position.