NFL30 min ago2 minute read

Rams Turn to Blake Grupe to Fix Broken Kicking Game

The Los Angeles Rams cut Harrison Mevis and signed Blake Grupe to help fix a struggling special teams unit.

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Rams Make Kicking Switch After Costly Mistakes

The Los Angeles Rams are shaking up their special teams after a rough start to the year. Kicker Harrison Mevis was cut on Tuesday, one day after missing a 50 yard attempt and having a potential winning kick blocked in overtime against Buffalo. Mevis made just 5 of 9 kicks this season. His 56 percent success rate was the lowest mark in the NFL.

To replace him, the team signed Blake Grupe off the New York Jets practice squad. Grupe spent part of last season with the Indianapolis Colts, where he made all 11 field goal attempts and all 10 extra points. Rams coach Sean McVay said the team simply needs better production.

Ongoing Special Teams Issues

Kicking problems are not new in Los Angeles. The Rams hold a 77.2 percent field goal rate over the past four seasons, which is the second worst mark in the league. Special teams miscues have also played a major part in five of the team's nine losses since the start of last season, including the postseason.

The Rams entered Week 6 with a minus 15.3 percent special teams DVOA, which would be the worst over a full season in NFL history. McVay fired coordinator Chase Blackburn late last season after giving up a 58 yard punt return touchdown to Seattle, and the front office cut returner Xavier Smith on Oct. 2.

An Easier Path Ahead

Despite a 2-3 record, the Rams have faced a demanding opening stretch. Four of their first five games, and all three of their losses, came against playoff teams from 2025.

The upcoming schedule looks far friendlier. Over the next five games, Los Angeles plays the 1-4 Arizona Cardinals twice, along with the 3-2 Las Vegas Raiders, the 0-5 Los Angeles Chargers, and the 1-3-1 Washington Commanders. That stretch gives the Rams an opportunity to correct their errors and climb back into contention.

What it means for the next game

Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Rams (NFL, Sun, 18 Oct): Los Angeles Rams win 83%, Arizona Cardinals win 17%; projected score Los Angeles Rams 32, Arizona Cardinals 20. Our safest pick: Cardinals +19.5.

Los Angeles Rams at Las Vegas Raiders (NFL, Sun, 25 Oct): Las Vegas Raiders win 27%, Los Angeles Rams win 73%; projected score Las Vegas Raiders 20, Los Angeles Rams 27. Our safest pick: Rams to win.