Rams Swap Kickers Amidst Lingering Special Teams Issues

The Los Angeles Rams have made a significant change at kicker, replacing the 250-plus-pound Harrison Mevis, nicknamed the “Thiccer Kicker,” with the 150-pound Blake Grupe, who was signed off the New York Jets’ practice squad. This substantial weight difference at the position highlights a broader concern for the Rams: persistent special teams problems that have haunted the team for two seasons.

Despite changes to personnel, including kickers and returners, the Rams have struggled to overcome recurring special teams errors. This issue was evident in their recent 37-34 overtime loss to the Buffalo Bills. The game featured a costly kickoff coverage breakdown and another field goal operation failure, contributing to a loss where the Rams felt fundamental execution was lacking.

Past instances of special teams failures include two blocked field goals against Philadelphia last season and a muffed punt in the NFC Championship game, both of which had significant impacts on game outcomes. Coach Sean McVay acknowledged the team's special teams instability on Thursday, attributing it to a high number of moving parts, injuries, and roster changes that have created a trickle-down effect.

Personnel Changes and Identity Search

The Rams have employed Alex Bachman on punt returns, Jordan Whittington on kickoffs, and now Grupe as their latest kicker. McVay admitted the team is still defining its special teams identity, a statement that raises concerns for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.

Since Greg Zuerlein's departure after the 2019 season, the Rams have utilized 11 different kickers in seven seasons. Grupe brings some prior experience, having made all 11 of his field goal attempts and 10 extra points with the Colts last season. However, he has had limited time to establish chemistry with long snapper Joe Cardona and holder Ethan Evans, as well as develop rhythm with the offensive line's protection assignments.

"It’s all about getting comfortable," Grupe stated, acknowledging the challenges of switching cities, teams, and organizations. Special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone continues to emphasize fundamental execution, recalling a mantra to "eliminate the bad football" and "stop from losing."

Persistent Struggles and Accountability

The Rams' special teams unit is often undermining its own efforts through poor leverage, missed assignments, and breakdowns in execution, rather than consistently being outplayed by opponents. This recurring pattern suggests a deeper issue within the operation itself.

McVay has publicly supported Ventrone, who replaced Chase Blackburn as special teams coordinator midway through last season. However, accountability extends beyond the kicker. Ventrone is responsible for the coverage units, the integration of new players like Grant Stuard and Cardona, and the selection of Grupe. The expectation is for these units to execute consistently, regardless of personnel changes.

Looking Ahead

With a 2-3 record and trailing the NFC West-leading 49ers, the Rams face increasing pressure to improve. The upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals will serve as an immediate test of whether the recent personnel adjustments will translate into better performance. The team needs clean exchanges, disciplined coverage, secure returns, and successful field goals to stop losing games. Failure to do so could have significant implications for their season and Super Bowl aspirations, regardless of the kicker's physical stature.