The Los Angeles Rams have made a notable shift in their kicking department, announcing the release of kicker Harrison Mevis and the signing of Blake Grupe from the New York Jets' practice squad. This move aims to bolster the Rams' special teams as they look to turn their season around.
Mevis, standing at 6'0" and weighing 245 pounds, had garnered the nickname "The Thiccer Kicker". However, his performance in recent games, particularly during the overtime loss to the Buffalo Bills, proved to be less than satisfactory. In that game, Mevis missed two key field goals: a wide left attempt from 50 yards in the first quarter and a blocked 48-yard attempt in overtime, which could have secured a victory for the Rams. His overall performance this season shows arecord of just 5-of-9 on field goals, with notable struggles from between 40-49 yards where he is only 3-of-6. Despite converting all 14 extra point attempts, the inconsistency in field goals was a decisive factor in the Rams’ management choices.
Mevis's NFL Journey
Harrison Mevis stepped into the NFL spotlight after making his debut with the Rams on November 9, 2025, following the benching of kicker Joshua Karty. Last season, he showed promise with a highly efficient record of 18-of-19 field goals, including playoffs, and converted all 23 extra points. His early potential led the Rams to keep him on the roster despite last year's special teams challenges, yet he finds himself on the move due to the current issues affecting the team.
Special Teams Struggles Plague the Rams
Despite last season's successes, the Rams have faced a series of hurdles this year, particularly in their special teams. During a pivotal game against the Philadelphia Eagles last season, the Rams’ hopes were dashed when a blocked game-winning field goal was returned for a touchdown, contributing to a bitter defeat. Under head coach Sean McVay's leadership, there were high expectations for the kicking game; however, complaints about the team's inefficiencies have been voiced. “In the kicking game, especially with our PAT, field goal, not even close to good enough,” lamented McVay, emphasizing that such shortcomings directly resulted in the Rams' loss against the Bills.
Blake Grupe: A New Hope for the Rams
The Rams' decision to turn to Blake Grupe represents a strategic response to their pressing special teams issues. Grupe brings substantial experience with a record of 86-of-105 successful field goal attempts (81.9 percent) and a remarkable conversion rate of 96-of-98 in extra points. His capabilities from long-range are highlighted by his 19-of-27 performance from beyond 50 yards, achieving a long of 60 yards in his career. Grupe has previously played for the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts, showcasing his talent and ability to perform under pressure.
Grupe had signed a one-year contract with the Colts in March but was waived during roster cuts in August. Shortly after, the Jets claimed him, allowing Grupe to regroup before joining the Rams. This transition presents a second consecutive opportunity for the Rams to recruit a kicker from New York, which emphasizes the ongoing transformation and strategy within the Rams' roster management.
The Road Ahead for the Rams
While the Rams currently hold a record of 2-3, there is a palpable belief that the team possesses far more talent than what their record reflects. With Grupe now in the fold, there is renewed hope that the special teams will stabilize, enabling the Rams to convert crucial scoring chances as they prepare to face the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. This upcoming match will be pivotal, as the Rams aim to level their record to 3-3 by showing improvement in all phases of the game.
The results of these changes will unfold in the coming weeks, as the pressure mounts on the team to deliver on their potential while cleaning up earlier missteps in their special teams play. As the Rams bring Grupe into the fold amidst a backdrop of prior kicking difficulties, all eyes will be on the new kicker to see if he can help the Rams reclaim their standing as contenders.
