The Los Angeles Rams have cut veteran kicker Harrison Mevis and added Blake Grupe from the New York Jets’ practice squad, head coach Sean McVay announced Tuesday. The move follows a loss to the Buffalo Bills in which Mevis missed a long field goal and had a potential game‑winning kick blocked in overtime.
Blake Grupe signed by the Rams
Grupe arrives with recent NFL experience. He began the 2025 season with the New Orleans Saints, making 18 of 26 field‑goal attempts, and after being released he joined the Indianapolis Colts, where he converted all 11 of his tries. McVay said the team felt Grupe was the most qualified option available with real‑game experience.
Did the Rams release their kicker?
Yes. The decision to part ways with Mevis was confirmed after the Buffalo game, where his 5‑for‑9 field‑goal record this season was deemed insufficient. McVay emphasized the need for better production and indicated that the roster change was intended to address that shortfall.
Rams release kicker – impact on special teams
The Rams have struggled on special teams, allowing three blocked field goals since the start of last season, the most in the league. Overall, the franchise has recorded 81 missed or blocked kicks under McVay since 2017, ranking third in the NFL. Those lapses have contributed to five losses attributed to special‑team errors.
Coaching adjustments
In response to the ongoing issues, the Rams dismissed special‑teams coordinator Chase Blackburn after the 2025 season and hired former player Bubba Ventrone in January. McVay expressed confidence in Ventrone, stating there will be no further changes to that unit for now.
Looking ahead
With Grupe set to take over kicking duties, the Rams hope to stabilize the position and avoid the costly mistakes that have plagued the unit. McVay indicated that the team considered a kicking competition but ultimately chose to give Grupe an immediate opportunity to contribute.
While the roster move addresses the immediate kicking concerns, the Rams' broader special‑teams challenges remain a focal point for the coaching staff as the season progresses.
Sources: ESPN, NBC Sports, NFL.com.
