Rams Replace Kicker Harrison Mevis After Special Teams Struggles

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October 13, 2026
Professional Sports Sports

Head coach Sean McVay meant it when he said he would evaluate everything following the Los Angeles Rams’ latest special teams issue. On Monday, Rams kicker Harrison Mevis missed a 50-yard field goal attempt in the first quarter and had a potential game-winning 48-yard field goal blocked in overtime during the team’s 37-34 loss to the Buffalo Bills. On Tuesday, the Rams released Mevis, which OutKick confirmed.

The team brought in Blake Grupe from the New York Jets’ practice squad to replace Mevis. NFL Network was the first to report on the Rams’ changes. McVay did not mince words about the kicking game. “In the kicking game, especially with our PAT and field goal, not even close to good enough,” McVay told reporters following the loss. “It cost us the game tonight.”

Special teams woes have been a recurring issue for the Rams since McVay took over in 2017. Including playoffs, they have experienced 81 missed or blocked kicks since then, ranking third in the NFL. From the start of last season, opponents have blocked three of the Rams’ kicks, tied for the most in the league, according to ESPN.

Mevis commented on his performance, saying, “I felt like I hit it good. That’s all I can tell you. I mean, I hit it good, gave it a chance. I’ll have to look.” Mevis, known as the “Thicker Kicker” due to his 245-pound frame, joined the Rams’ active roster in November. Last season, in nine games, the 24-year-old successfully made 12 of 13 field goal attempts and all 39 extra-point tries. He was flawless in the Rams’ three playoff games, making all six field goal attempts and nine extra-point efforts.

This season, however, has told a different story. Mevis only made five of nine field goal attempts in the Rams’ first five games. The Rams hope Grupe can bring stability to the position. At 27, Grupe has played for the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints over three seasons, completing 86 of 106 field goal attempts and 96 of 98 extra-point tries. Grupe wrapped up last season with the Colts by completing all 11 field goal attempts in five games.