The Los Angeles Rams announced today that they have released kicker Harrison Mevis after his two missed field‑goal attempts in the overtime defeat to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Mevis, who joined the team midway through last season, struggled with accuracy this year, going 5‑for‑9 on field goals and missing both a 50‑yard and a 48‑yard attempt in the recent game.
Performance issues prompt roster move
Mevis’ missed kicks proved decisive. The 48‑yard attempt in overtime was tipped by Bills defensive end Greg Rousseau, ending the Rams’ chance for a walk‑off win. The special‑teams unit has been a point of concern for head coach Sean McVay, who said after the game that the place‑kicking unit “cost us the game tonight.” With Mevis now the NFL’s most missed field‑goal kicker this season, the Rams opted to make a change.
Blake Grupe joins the roster
To fill the vacancy, the Rams signed Blake Grupe, a four‑year NFL veteran who most recently was on the New York Jets’ practice squad. Grupe began his career with the New Orleans Saints, where he spent two and a half seasons before being released last November. He later signed with the Indianapolis Colts, finishing that season by converting all 11 of his field‑goal attempts. Although he lost a training‑camp competition in Indianapolis this summer, his proven accuracy makes him a logical addition for Los Angeles.
Special‑teams overhaul continues
McVay indicated that the team will conduct a thorough review of all special‑teams operations. The Rams have struggled in this phase of the game since the start of last season, and the coaching staff is determined to address the deficiencies. Grupe will be the fifth kicker the Rams have employed in four seasons, following the departure of former Super Bowl‑winning kicker Matt Gay.
Mevis entered the league with a strong rookie showing, converting 12 of 13 field‑goal attempts in his first season and going perfect (6‑for‑6) in the playoffs. However, his recent miss in an overtime loss to the Bills—who later became the eventual Super Bowl champion Seattle—underscored the need for consistency.
The Rams currently sit at 2‑3 on the season and are looking to stabilize their special‑teams performance as they aim for a playoff push. Fans can expect Grupe to compete for the starting role in upcoming practices and preseason preparations.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
